Students at Pell City High School are working towards becoming Certified Nursing Aids (CNA) before they graduate high school.  The class of 10 students have been involved with the CNA program since August. They completed the coursework in March and will spend the rest of their time before the CNA test practicing and revising for the exam. Those exams are currently underway, with dates set through May.

The Jefferson State Community College Advisory Board visited campus to see the students in action on April 11. According to Jefferson State Community College Coordinator of Career Programs Leah Collins, having practical experience on people outside of classmates improves the student’s skills and prepares them for their test.

Students preformed blood pressure checks, took temperatures, and explained to board members proper medical procedures they have learned throughout the year.

This program is another medium for the career development opportunities provided to PCHS students. Graduating as a CNA adds to student’s resumes and college applications.

“This program is awesome, because I get to learn about something that I love,” CNA student Haley Davis said. “It gives me a ton of experience and a certification that I can take into college.”

The certification will allow Davis to work during her time at school. She plans on starting at Jefferson State and transferring to University of Alabama at Birmingham for her nursing degree.

“I plan on working at the hospital while I’m in school,” Davis said. “I’ll be able to work part time, doing something I love, and getting even more experience before I go on to get my BSN.”

Whether the students make a career of nursing or not, they will still graduate high school with the class experience. Providing students the opportunity to explore their career options is one of PCHS principal Tony Dowdy’s main goals as an educator in Pell City.