During the first year of the program juniors are in the classroom learning about the health care field. Everyone has been very helpful in making this a successful program. Level I, the first year of the program for high school juniors, covers medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, the scope of the health care industry and occupations, legal aspects, and basic care skills, including how to take vital signs. Level II has much more hands-on learning. This year ten seniors chose to participate.
Staff also spend time discussing the psychosocial issues of health care.
Students also go to The Green Home and learn about senior activities, nursing, dietetics, physical and occupational therapies, and social services. I've improved my communication skills, learned how to relate to patients and professionals, and I understand more when a physician or nurse talks to me. The students spend an hour and a half every morning of their senior year observing, shadowing and learning. It is a significant commitment by the students, the mentors and the organizations involved. This is the fifth year the program has been in existence and the fourth senior class to complete the program.