IPS and IU Health have established an innovative approach to creating sustainable and high-quality career pathways to jobs in healthcare by designing a health care-focused fellowship for Crispus Attucks High School students. The fellowship expands the district’s Health Sciences Pathway.
IU Health worked directly with IPS staff to align the fellowship’s curriculum with the high-demand clinical needs of IU Health.
Beginning in 2021, Crispus Attucks students in the Health Sciences Academy Pre-Nursing Pathway will have two options and will graduate with either a Medical Assistant Certification or a Patient Care Assistant Certification.
Pre-Nursing Pathway Explained
The Crispus Attucks Health Sciences Academy Pre-Nursing Pathway — Careers for those who provide and manage therapeutic services, diagnostic services, health information, support services and biotechnology research.
Nursing-Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (NHA) – Out-Patient Focus (or) Nursing-Patient Care Technician/Assistant (NHA) – In Patient Focus
Nursing is a three-year program where students will focus on learning about the health care system and employment opportunities at a variety of entry levels; an overview of the health care delivery systems, health care teams and legal and ethical considerations; and obtaining the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential for providing basic care in a variety of health care settings.
Through this program, students will:
- Earn seven industry-recognized certifications:
- Including an entry level certification to work as a nursing assistant in health care facilities while in high school.
- Participate in 75 hours of clinical experiences at local long-term care facilities.
- Participate in clinical and/or work-based learning experiences in an acute-care setting.
- Learn skills in patient care, treatment, anatomy, physiology, diagnosis and preventative care.
- Earn 29 dual credits to Ivy Tech, aligning toward an associate degree in the school’s Healthcare Specialist program.
- Participate in activities to build their employability and leaderships skills.
Upon graduation, students completing the fellowship will receive a job offer from IU Health as a medical assistant or patient care tech, along with tuition assistance to complete a related degree.