Healthcare Education Programs at West Central High School in Biggsville, IL

West Central High School, located in Biggsville, Illinois, is committed to providing a broad range of educational opportunities for its students, including robust healthcare education programs. These programs are designed to prepare students for both immediate entry into the healthcare workforce and further education in healthcare professions.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

A cornerstone of West Central High School’s healthcare education offerings is the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. This program provides students with the necessary training and certification to become a CNA, a critical role within the healthcare industry. The CNA program includes:

• Classroom Instruction: Students learn fundamental nursing skills, patient care techniques, and the basics of healthcare laws and ethics.
• Clinical Experience: Hands-on training in a real-world medical setting, where students practice under the supervision of licensed nurses.
• State Certification Prep: The course prepares students for the Illinois state certification examination for CNAs.

Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA)

HOSA is a national organization that promotes career opportunities in the healthcare industry and enhances the delivery of quality healthcare to all people. At West Central High School, HOSA provides students with:

• Leadership Development: Programs aimed at enhancing leadership qualities and healthcare knowledge.
• Competitive Events: Opportunities to participate in state and national competitions that test students’ medical knowledge and skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with health professionals and other students with similar interests in healthcare.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses in Sciences

To support career readiness in healthcare, West Central High School also offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses in various sciences, such as:

• AP Biology: A comprehensive course that covers molecular biology, genetics, evolution, ecosystems, and interactions among organisms.
• AP Chemistry: Focuses on chemical reactions, the structure of matter, and the properties of gases, liquids, and solids.

These courses not only provide rigorous academic preparation but also offer college credit upon successful completion of the AP exams.

Dual Credit Courses

West Central High School partners with local community colleges to offer dual credit courses that align with healthcare education. These courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously. Some of the dual credit offerings include:

• Intro to Health Professions: An overview of various careers in healthcare and the educational paths leading to them.
• Medical Terminology: Understanding the language of healthcare professionals, a foundational course for any healthcare career.

Job Shadowing and Internships

To give students real-world experience, West Central High School facilitates job shadowing and internship opportunities with local healthcare providers. These experiences are invaluable for students as they allow them to:

• Observe Healthcare Professionals: See firsthand the day-to-day responsibilities of different healthcare roles.
• Gain Practical Experience: Apply classroom knowledge in actual healthcare settings.
• Network with Industry Professionals: Build connections that can lead to future job opportunities or mentorship.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career in healthcare can be an incredibly rewarding journey, and West Central High School provides ample opportunities to get started. With a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and real-world experience, students are well-prepared to enter the healthcare industry or pursue further education in the field. If you’re interested in healthcare education, consider exploring these robust programs at West Central High School.