The health academy in RPS205 schools have an elective, Medical Science – Nursing Aide, which allows seniors to obtain on the job training and skills by working in a hospital during school hours. Students in the program are able to receive their certified nursing assistant qualification for passing the class.

   “As long as the students pass with a 70% or above and pass their clinical rotations/skills, they will be qualified to take their state certified nursing assistant exam,” said Melissa Vyborny, RN and Program Coordinator. “When certified, students can begin working as a certified nursing assistant in a long term care facility or hospital.”

   Being a certified nursing assistant out of high school is not only convenient to have opportunities in medical facilities, but additionally helps students meet requirements for most nursing schools, which typically require applicants to have their CNA certification to be admitted.

   Students in the program take two hours of their school day to learn life and on-the-job skills, working and observing the medical environment in the hospital setting. Students in this pathway also take a lifesaving & CPR course, further advancing their qualifications and knowledge in the medical field.

   How does one get in this program?

   “You can apply for the class during registration junior year,” said Donna Pauley, health academy counselor. “Students who qualify would have the class on their schedule senior year.”

   Mrs. Pauley claims in order to be eligible for the program, students must have an accumulative GPA point average of 3.0 or higher. Students also require excellent attendance, and a strong work ethic.

   “I really see them grow up,” said Mrs. Pauley. “They’re all so mature and act like it’s no biggie taking a class off campus.”

   The number of students that apply for the program differs from year to year. This year there were eight students from Guilford who applied and were admitted, but in previous years there have been more than twenty.

   “One of my favorite things about teaching this class is watching the students grow in their maturity and confidence,” said Ms. Vyborny. “Most students are completely different individuals and caretakers by the time they graduate.”

   With class registration upcoming for next year, juniors in the pre nursing pathway interested in pursuing the program should consider why they might be a good fit and benefit themselves in the PreNursing program.

   “It’s so rewarding to see them walk in on their first day and then to look at them again on their last.,” said Ms. Vyborny. “There aren’t many times in life to be able to witness transformation and growth like that. It makes me very proud of the class and program to see it firsthand.”