The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, in collaboration with Herzing University, offers a comprehensive and free Certified Nurse's Aide program specifically designed for high school students. This four-week program is an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in healthcare and want to gain practical experience while still attending high school. With no cost to participate, this program removes financial barriers, making it accessible for students who may not have other options for training in the medical field.
Program Format and Schedule
This program is held in person at The Ready Center, located at 1916 Vel R. Phillips Ave in Milwaukee. The format combines both theoretical and hands-on learning, with students attending weekly modules and skills training. The clinical and skills training sessions take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., allowing students to participate after school hours. This evening schedule provides flexibility for high school students who may have other commitments during the day.
The program duration is four weeks, which is relatively short compared to other CNA training programs, making it ideal for students who want to start their healthcare career quickly. In addition to the CNA training, students will participate in three weeks of employment preparation, enhancing their readiness to enter the workforce immediately after certification.
Program Curriculum
The curriculum is robust, covering a wide range of essential healthcare topics such as patient care, anatomy, physiology, infection control, rehabilitation, and cultural diversity. Students will also receive specialized training in working with geriatric and dementia patients, a crucial area in today’s healthcare landscape. Hands-on skills include using personal protective equipment, measuring vital signs like blood pressure and glucose levels, assisting with patient hygiene, and performing range-of-motion exercises.
Additionally, students will gain practical experience with equipment like mechanical lifts, gait belts, and catheter care. This practical focus ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges they will face in real-world healthcare settings.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the program, students must be at least 16 years old and either maintain a 2.5 GPA by the end of their sophomore year, be a high school graduate, or achieve a Wonderlic entrance score of 16. These eligibility requirements make the program accessible to a wide range of students, including those who may not have had the highest academic performance but are still dedicated to pursuing a career in healthcare.
No Cost and Support
One of the standout features of this program is that it is completely free for participants. Tuition and supplies are fully covered, removing the financial burden that often comes with certification programs. Students will also receive additional employment training to help them transition into the workforce, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Accreditation and Certification
The CNA training program meets all Wisconsin state and federal requirements, ensuring that students are eligible to sit for the Wisconsin CNA certification exam upon completion. This accreditation guarantees that the education provided is of the highest quality and recognized by healthcare employers across the state.
What to Expect After Graduation
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be well-prepared to take the Wisconsin CNA certification written exam and skills test. Graduates will not only have the necessary skills to enter the healthcare field but also benefit from the employment training provided during the program, enhancing their employability. While job placement services are not explicitly mentioned, the program's partnership with Herzing University and the Boys & Girls Club's reputation provide strong networking opportunities for graduates.
This free, state-accredited program offers a unique opportunity for high school students to gain practical healthcare skills while preparing for their future careers. With a short duration, flexible schedule, and comprehensive training, this CNA program stands out as a valuable option for those looking to jumpstart their healthcare career without the financial burden.
