Healthcare Education Programs at Centralia High School in Centralia, IL

Centralia High School in Centralia, IL, offers an array of comprehensive healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for careers in the medical field. These programs are developed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, allowing students to explore various aspects of healthcare, gain necessary certifications, and potentially earn college credit.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

One of the standout healthcare education programs at Centralia High School is the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. This program provides students with hands-on training and classroom instruction to prepare for the CNA certification exam. Key components of the CNA program include:

• Clinical Rotations: Students gain real-world experience through clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities, where they practice skills such as patient care, hygiene assistance, and vital signs monitoring under the supervision of licensed professionals.
• Curriculum Overview: The curriculum covers essential topics, including anatomy and physiology, basic nursing skills, infection control, and patient rights and ethics.
• Certification: Successful completion of the program prepares students to take the Illinois State CNA Certification Exam, providing them with a credential that enables them to work in various healthcare settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.

Health Science Courses

Centralia High School also offers a variety of general health science courses that provide foundational knowledge in the healthcare field. These courses are geared toward students interested in pursuing further education or careers in health-related areas. Notable courses may include:

• Health Science I and II: These introductory courses offer a broad overview of the healthcare industry, human anatomy and physiology, basic medical terminology, and health and wellness.
• Medical Terminology: A specialized course focusing on the language of medicine, including the roots, prefixes, and suffixes used to build and understand medical terms.
• Anatomy and Physiology: In-depth study of the human body, exploring the structure and function of different organ systems and the physiological processes that sustain life.

Dual Credit Opportunities

Centralia High School partners with local community colleges to provide dual credit opportunities for students enrolled in healthcare courses. These partnerships allow students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously, giving them a head start on their post-secondary education. Courses available for dual credit often include:

• Biology: Covering fundamental biological concepts, often with a focus on human biology relevant to healthcare careers.
• Introduction to Healthcare Professions: Providing an overview of various healthcare careers, education requirements, and the healthcare system.

Extracurricular Opportunities

In addition to formal coursework, Centralia High School encourages students to participate in extracurricular activities related to healthcare. These activities help students deepen their understanding and passion for the field while developing leadership skills. Options may include:

• Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA): A national student organization that promotes career opportunities in healthcare and enhances the delivery of quality health care by providing programs of leadership development, motivation, and recognition.
• Job Shadowing and Internships: Opportunities for students to observe and work alongside healthcare professionals, gaining valuable insights into different healthcare careers and work environments.

Get Started Today

Centralia High School’s healthcare education programs provide a robust platform for students interested in pursuing careers in the medical field. From certified nursing assistant training to comprehensive health science courses and dual credit opportunities, students are well-equipped to take the next steps in their healthcare education and career paths. For more information or to enroll in these programs, students and parents are encouraged to contact Centralia High School’s guidance office.