Frenship ISD proudly offers 90 Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses, each designed to provide hands-on learning experiences while integrating industry-based skills and knowledge. Within the CTE building, dozens of students are gaining a head start in the healthcare field through the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Pharmacy Technician programs.
The Health Sciences program at Frenship ISD is rigorous yet rewarding, equipping students with the skills and hands-on experience needed to pursue careers in healthcare. Upon graduation, students earn professional certifications that allow them to enter the workforce immediately or continue their education in the medical field.
In the CNA classes, students develop a strong foundation in nursing through a combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on training. They learn essential patient care skills, including bathing, feeding, dressing, and mobility assistance, along with vital sign measurement such as blood pressure, pulse, temperature, and respiration. Additionally, students are trained in infection control, safety procedures, patient rights, ethical considerations, and more, preparing them for success in the healthcare field.
In the Pharmacy Technician courses, students master the top 200 drugs, memorizing both their brand-to-generic and generic-to-brand names. They gain a deep understanding of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics while also learning about medications in relation to various body systems.
Both courses offer students the opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications before graduation, bringing them one step closer to achieving their career goals. CNA students obtain their Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, allowing them to enter the workforce immediately while also building a strong foundation for careers in nursing, medical school, and other healthcare-related fields. In the Pharmacy Technician program, students who successfully complete their web-based curriculum become eligible to sit for the PTCB exam, earning the title of Certified Pharmacy Technician and opening doors to careers in the pharmaceutical industry.
Built into the course curriculum, each student must complete several hours of clinical rotations. These hands-on experiences take students into real healthcare settings, where they apply classroom knowledge, work alongside experienced medical professionals, and gain valuable insight into various career paths within the healthcare field.
The CNA program partners with Crown Point Health Suites and Carillon Senior Living Home to provide students with hands-on clinical rotation experiences. Michelle Reeves, the CNA Program Director at Frenship High School, stated that Carillon has been a key partner since the inception of the nurse aide training program, while Crown Point was added six years ago to expand opportunities for students.
“Each site offers unique learning experiences,” said Reeves. “The students develop practical skills that can’t be learned in a classroom alone. Additionally, these partnerships strengthen the local healthcare workforce and create a pipeline of skilled professionals.”
Reeves explained that one of the most memorable clinical rotations was when the students were able to work within the memory care unit. They work with dementia patients, gaining hands-on experience in compassionate care.
"Many students reflected on how it deepened their passion for healthcare and inspired them to pursue careers in nursing and gerontology,” said Reeves.
The Pharmacy Technician program partners with United Supermarkets, Walgreens, and Covenant Hospital to provide students with valuable clinical experiences. These rotations expose students to the daily technical responsibilities of a pharmacy while emphasizing patient communication and professionalism.
Stephanie Humphrey, the Pharmacy Technician program instructor at FHS, explained that beyond the technical expertise, the program often emphasizes communication skills, teamwork, and professionalism.
"These soft skills are essential in any career and are particularly valued in healthcare settings where interaction with patients and healthcare professionals is common,” said Humphrey.
Many students enrolled in health sciences classes participate in the FHS HOSA team, an international CTE student organization dedicated to empowering future health professionals. Involvement in HOSA further enriches the students’ healthcare education by adding another outlet for learning and utilizing classroom knowledge.
Frenship ISD’s CTE program gives students a valuable head start in the healthcare field through its Health Science courses, providing them with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed for success.
“Frenship High School’s Health Sciences programs are dedicated to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals with strong clinical skills, professionalism, and compassion,” said Reeves.
Through rigorous coursework, hands-on clinical rotations, industry partnerships, and involvement in organizations like HOSA, students graduate prepared to enter the workforce or continue their education in healthcare. Frenship ISD is shaping the future of healthcare by developing skilled and compassionate professionals ready to make a difference.