Students from four Chinook’s Edge high schools are already college graduates, after completing the first-ever Health Care Aide dual credit program. There are several different dual credit programs available to high school students throughout the division. (Note: this photo was taken prior to COVID-19 and social distancing restrictions)

By Chinook's Edge School Division

early achievers

Health Care Aide students complete college program before graduating high school

May 19, 2020 | 7:00 PM

Students from École H.J. Cody High School in Sylvan Lake,Spruce View School, Sundre High and École Innisfail High have a solid footing in a medical career, thanks to the newest dual credit program.

“They all successfully (like rock stars!) completed the certificate program through RDC and are now all certified as Health Care Aides,” said Jackie Taylor, who coordinates several dual credit opportunities for high school students throughout Chinook’s Edge. “These students truly are post-secondary graduates before they graduate high school. They earned 25 high school credits and they get to be part of the RDC Convocation acknowledgment in June. It’s an amazing opportunity for them.”

The fast-paced program ran from September to January withseveral courses and two practicums in health care facilities. For Catlin (Cati) MacArthur from Spruce View School, the program opened an important door to the next step of her career plans.

“I got a job working at the long-term care facility where I haddone one of my practicums,” said Cati. “I’ve always been interested in a career in the medical field and was considering becoming a paramedic.

“One of the staff at our school suggested the new Health Care Aide program might be helpful and it’s been a great opportunity. I now have college credentials and a great job, and I’m not even finished grade 12 yet! I’d eventually love to work in a hospital setting, but right now I’m so grateful to have had this amazing opportunity and to get a great job in the middle of this pandemic. I’m so appreciative this opportunity was available.”

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Chinook’s Edge Career Counselors and Practitioners at highschools can provide more information about Dual Credit programs, which allow students to achieve credits at both the high school and post-secondary levels.