New BHS medical science program prepares students for health care industry

Byron High School students interested in joining the health care field have gained the knowledge and experience to help them transition smoothly to the next step in their goals.

The Byron School District began a new Medical Science learning pathway for Byron High School students this past fall. The intention behind starting the program was to help BHS students interested in joining the high-demand field of health care with the knowledge and experience to help them transition quickly and smoothly to the next step in their educational or employment journey. Byron High School is the only school in the county with this program.

In addition to the coursework offered, students are also able to get real-life industry experience through a partnership with Generations at Neighbors Rehabilitation and Post-Acute Care Center in Byron. Currently 19 Byron High School Medical Science students are completing their coursework and clinicals at Generations and are preparing to sit for their Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam.

“It’s been really exciting to be part of this new CNA program here at Byron High School. This is a great opportunity for students to become certified and ready to enter a profession right out of high school,” said Medical Science instructor Rachel Rankin. “The students and I have fun in our simulation lab practicing skills on our training mannequins, and my goal as their instructor is to ensure that the students are entering the world of patient care as qualified, knowledgeable, and skilled certified nursing assistants.”

Mrs. Rankin is a trained registered nurse and offers classes in Medical Science and Introduction to Health Occupations. Next year she will also be teaching a course in Medical Terminology. When enrolled in these courses, students have the option of earning dual credit (college credit) through Rock Valley College.

Congratulations and good luck to all of our students currently enrolled in our Medical Sciences program and preparing to sit for their CNA exam. We wish you the best on your health care journey.