El Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) has announced the continued growth and success of its Health Career Pathways program, a comprehensive career exploration initiative designed to meet the healthcare needs of San Diego’s East County.

With a substantial investment from the Grossmont Healthcare District (GHD), these programs provide students — particularly those from low-income backgrounds — with the opportunity to obtain entry-level clinical positions and launch careers in the healthcare industry, one of America’s fastest growing fields.

El Health Career Pathways program offers a rigorous three-year course of study that includes Community Health Biology, Community Health Chemistry, and Physiology. In addition, students can earn certifications such as the American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) and gain hands-on experience through internships, extended day learning, and other immersive opportunities.

Flagship programs include the Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) and Medical Assistant (MA) certification courses at the GUHSD Health Occupations Center (HOC) and the Health Exploration Summer Institute (HESI), a three-week internship at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.

During the 2023-24 school year, over 5,000 GUHSD students enrolled in Health Career Pathway qualifying courses across eight GUHSD high schools. The program saw a remarkable 180% increase in completion rates since 2020, with approximately 500 students completing the program last year. The summer of 2024 alone saw 48 students participate in the MA, CNA, and HESI internship programs. These numbers are expected to grow in the upcoming school year, reflecting the program’s expanding reach and impact.

“Health Career Pathways provide our students with a solid foundation for future success in the healthcare sector,” said Todd Linke, GUHSD Health Career Pathways Coordinator. “The combination of academic rigor, practical experience, and industry certifications give our graduates a competitive edge, whether they choose to enter the workforce directly or continue their education,” he added.

The partnership with Grossmont Healthcare District has reportedly been instrumental in the success of the Health Career Pathways program. GHD’s financial investments have enabled GUHSD to offer these programs at a scale that would reportedly otherwise be unattainable. In addition to funding, Sharp Grossmont Hospital provides physical space and staff support for the HESI internship, while the HOC offers the necessary facilities, teaching staff, and assistance with state testing.

“The Grossmont Healthcare District is committed to improving healthcare access and outcomes in our community,” said Christian Wallis, CEO of Grossmont Healthcare District. “By investing in the Health Career Pathways program, we’re not only helping to fill critical roles in our local healthcare system but also providing life-changing opportunities for students who might not otherwise have had a pathway into these careers,” Wallis added.

Gloria A. Chadwick, RN, President of the Grossmont Healthcare District Board of Directors, echoed these sentiments. “This partnership exemplifies our mission to support the health and wellness of our community. We’re proud to contribute to a program that equips the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and experience they need to thrive,” she said.

GUHSD’s Health Career Pathways program is also supported by Federal Title 1 funds and the California Educational Trust Grant, which help ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have access to these valuable resources.

“The Health Career Pathways program is a testament to what can be achieved when educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders come together with a shared vision,” said Eileen Bagg-Rizzo, Director II of GUHSD ‘s College & Career Readiness Department. “We are incredibly grateful to the Grossmont Healthcare District for their ongoing support, which has made a real difference in the lives of our students,” Bagg-Rizzo added.

For more information about the Health Career Pathways program, visit the Grossmont Union High School District website or contact Collin McGlashen, Executive Director of Communications with the Grossmont Union High School District at [email protected].

(Foto de cortesía)