CNA Lab Provides Real-World Experience
Each year, we work closely with the District to identify a special project in need of funding and then make it the focus of the fundraising at our annual Royal Bash gala. In 2023, with our District special project Step Into a Brilliant Future, we raised funds for LETRS the Science of Reading for all elementary students; tutoring at the Academic Skills Center at the high school; and the Certified Nursing Lab at Hopkins High School. We raised $49,500 for these programs, with $19,000 directed to the CNA Lab.
The Certified Nursing Assistant Lab opened in December 2023. It features a state-of-the-art lab that simulates a hospital setting and offers real-world experience to those wanting to pursue a career in medicine. The lab includes hospital beds, mannequins, and medical equipment so students can learn and practice skills. Through this program, students can also earn CNA certification, a value of around $1,500. Students who enroll both have time in the simulated setting and an actual clinical setting, helping build critical thinking skills and empathy.
Below listen to Superintendent Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed and staff talking about the launch of the CNA program on the Inside Hopkins podcast.
On December 7, HEF Executive Director Emily Wallace-Jackson attended the Open House for the completion of the CNA Lab and celebrated with Kara LeVahn, Career and Tech Ed coordinator, and the community. The first CNA certification class started in January 2024. The class appeals to a wide range of students who are interested in a job as a nursing assistant during high school or after graduation, and college-bound students interested in healthcare careers.
From left, Kristin Hanneman, HEF board member; Zhiming Zhao, newly elected Hopkins School Board member; Emily Wallace-Jackson, HEF executive director; Kara LeVahn, HHS Career and Tech Ed coordinator; and Katie Henefield, RN and district parent who will help teach the CNA class.
Below, hear from Marit Lee-Dohse, instructor, about what students can expect in the CNA lab course, and look at more images from the launch of the lab and the spring shaving lab.
