USD 407, Russell Regional Hospital Partnership Building Future Workforce

USD 407 and Russell Regional Hospital are pleased to be offering CNA classes this semester at Russell High School.

Discussions began in the spring of 2022 to explore the option and begin putting together details of an instructor, location for the class and training supplies. Classes kicked off when USD 407 began the 2023 semester. Cultivating future workforce is a priority for both USD 407 and Russell Regional Hospital. Positioning students for careers after graduation also offers the opportunity for retention of the youth in our community.

David Caudill, RRH CEO, commented, "The health sector offers many career opportunities that local youth can consider for their future. The CNA class offers local students' exposure to Russell Regional Hospital services and staff. Building relationships with our youth gives them familiarity to what opportunities for their future are available right here in the Russell area. This is a great first step to cultivating workforce and helping students transition from schooling to the workplace. I appreciate USD 407 for making the space for this class and for their partnership to build future healthcare sector workforce."

Graduating students can either start their career as a CNA or continue their education moving toward additional licensing.

Partnerships and shared resources assist in reducing overall costs and timeframe for implementation.

Interim USD 407 Superintendent Clark Coco shared, "Anytime we can all work together for the betterment of our students and employers, we see great results for the overall community. Workforce needs and population decline are barriers in many communities, we hope this partnership will help with youth retention and fill career positions in the community."

Additional healthcare career tracks for students are in discussions for the future between USD 407 and Russell Regional Hospital.

(Information courtesy RRH.)