Crismon High School’s CTE Nursing Program: Preparing Future Healthcare Heroes

As CTE Month continues, it’s important to recognize programs that provide students with real-world skills and career readiness. Crismon High School’s CTE Nursing Program is an exemplary example, offering students hands-on experience, strong mentorships, and a supportive community to prepare them for careers in healthcare.

Students in the CTE nursing program don’t just learn about healthcare in the classroom, they actively participate in it. Junior Ava Singleton shared how the program has provided her with an informative clinical experience.

“We just finished up our clinical rotations. We worked in two post-acute care centers in Mesa, and we got to do everything that a CNA would do,” she said. “We interacted with a lot of patients and formed relationships. It’s amazing to put our knowledge into real-world settings.”

One of the greatest strengths of the program is the unwavering support of its instructor, Tarra Chownyk.

“My teacher, Mrs. Chownyk, provides such a valuable education. She shares her experiences and gives us so many resources to succeed after high school,” Ava said. “Now I’ve found something I truly love to do.”

Malynn Robinson, another junior at CHS added, “Tarra Chownyk has supported my learning through everything. No matter if I had an outrageous question, she was always there. She loves her students as much as she loves her children.”

Students in the program develop essential life skills that will serve them in any career path. “I’ve learned so much; teamwork, perseverance, and what it’s really like to work in the healthcare field,” Ava shared. “We’ve gained so much knowledge on how to take care of a patient and what to do in different situations. It’s changed my perspective on life and healthcare.”

Malynn emphasized the program’s impact on college preparation. “This program is so beneficial for preparing us for nursing school. When we get there, we’ll already have the experience and know what to do,” she said. “It makes you feel so much more prepared and well-rounded.”

Beyond the skills and experience, students in the program form a close bond, making their learning journey even more meaningful. “One thing I love about this program is that everyone is family,” Malynn said. “Since this is our second year, we’ve all spent those embarrassing moments together, and nobody cares. We support each other.”

For those considering joining the CTE nursing program, both Ava and Malynn have words of wisdom. “Go into it with an open mind. It’s a tough career field, but it’s also really rewarding,” Ava advised. Malynn added, “Don’t be a wallflower. Especially during clinicals, don’t be scared. Put yourself out there and have fun. Don’t be afraid to do the dirty work.”

As CTE Month shines a spotlight on career-focused education, Crismon High School’s CTE nursing program stands to the power of hands-on learning, dedicated educators, and passionate students. With expert instruction from Mrs. Chownyk and real-world experience, students leave high school prepared, confident, and ready to make a difference in the healthcare field.

For students seeking a meaningful and impactful high school experience, Crismon High School’s CTE nursing program offers an invaluable opportunity. Enroll today to give your student a head start in the healthcare field and open doors to a world of possibilities.

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