With the launch of a new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, students at Central High School can now earn their CNA certification while still in high school, building a strong foundation for a wide range of healthcare careers responding to the growing demand for skilled medical professionals. Dr. Todd Stirn, retired 301 superintendent and current work based learning specialist for Northern Kane County Region 110, described it best as a rocket launch into healthcare careers.
Stephen Buchs, Director of Curriculum 6–12 and College Partnerships, led the initiative alongside Department Chair Kelly Greene, noting students’ strong and growing interest in healthcare fields. Certified School Nurse Joyce Turnipseed now supervises the clinical coursework and supports students earning dual credit through Elgin Community College (ECC).
“This project has been a long overdue need to provide an option for students with an interest in any future healthcare profession,” said Stephen Buchs. “The investment by the district is minor in comparison to the student lives that will be changed by the pathway, even when it required overcoming challenges surrounding building space, finding licensed instructors, and managing student growth. The work invested by so many people to make the program a success is well worth it. District 301 is proud to stay a student-focused district so that every student today and in the future has access to a variety of careers.”
This work could not be done without our business and community partners. The Atrium at Oak Crest is now the clinical rotation site for the 11 CNA students. When asked about the clinical supervision and the partnership with The Atrium, Joyce Turnipseed praised the opportunity for students to transfer “their classroom learning into compassionate care gaining valuable hands-on experience in a real healthcare setting”.
Susan Cincinelli, Executive Director of The Atrium, enthusiastically greeted students the first day of the clinical experience. “It is a privilege to welcome District 301 CNA students to Oak Crest, where our 122-year tradition of dignity and caring continues to define our mission. Sharing the Oak Crest philosophy with the future leaders of healthcare is a true honor, and we are proud to partner with these dedicated learners—and share our mission-based approach. At Oak Crest, our goal is to continue to move toward an inclusive community where youth and aged people live together and learn from one another; these young people are reminders of what can be accomplished when the barriers of ageism are removed.”
Northern Kane County Region 110 and the Alignment Collaborative for Education applaud Central 301 and The Atrium at Oak Crest for launching this program and creating strong partnerships that connect students with real-world experience. The collaboration between Central 301 and The Atrium at Oak Crest exemplifies how schools and community organizations can work together to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals.
ACE is a member of the Alignment USA communities of collaboration and collective impact.
