A partnership between Montevideo High School, CCM Health, Minnesota West Community and Technical College, and the National Guard has received a LYFT Career Pathways Innovation award to develop and implement the Medical Careers Academy. This program prepares students for healthcare careers with hands-on lab experience, industry certifications, and real-world training, giving them a strong foundation for future success in the medical field.

Program Overview

The Medical Careers Academy at Montevideo Public Schools provides students with a unique opportunity to explore healthcare careers while gaining essential skills and certifications. Through hands-on learning and industry exposure, students build a strong foundation for a future in healthcare.

The program includes a year-long course titled Foundations of Medical Careers 1 that combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab experience. The course is taught by educators from Montevideo Public Schools and supported by healthcare professionals from CCM Health and other local organizations.

Students earn:

• Nine college credits through Minnesota West Community and Technical College
• First Aid/CPR certification
• Nursing Assistant certification
• Trained Medication Aide certification
• Medical Terminology course
• Community internship experience

The program is designed to give students a competitive edge by combining academic knowledge with practical experience, making them more prepared for future careers in healthcare.

Hands-On Learning Environment

Students participate in hands-on training at CCM Health and other local healthcare facilities. The course includes a fully equipped classroom lab featuring medical beds, manikins, and clinical equipment.

Training opportunities include:

• Direct instruction from healthcare professionals
• Realistic clinical scenarios in a mock hospital environment
• Job shadowing and internships with local healthcare providers

This hands-on approach helps students develop both technical and interpersonal skills essential for success in healthcare careers.

Students Impacted

• 25 students enrolled in the 2023–2024 school year
• 32 students projected for the 2024–2025 school year

Educational and Industry Partners

• CCM Health
• Montevideo Public High School
• National Guard
• Minnesota West Community and Technical College
• Brookside Senior Living
• HomeFront First
• Luther Haven
• MN River Area Agency on Aging
• Other Local Healthcare Organizations

Key Outcomes & Success Stories

• 28 students have earned their CNA certification
• 29 students have completed First Aid/CPR training
• 253 combined college credits earned over the past two years

Students graduate from the program prepared for immediate employment or further education in the healthcare field. Many students have already transitioned into healthcare roles or pursued post-secondary healthcare programs.

Lessons Learned & Future Plans

• Engaging partners eager to grow their workforce strengthens long-term success.
• Setting clear goals benefits both students and the community.
• Celebrating milestones helps sustain motivation and partnerships.
• Plans are underway to introduce an Intro to Healthcare Careers course to provide more career exploration upfront and better prepare students for the CNA program.

For more information, contact Kati Birhanzl at Montevideo Public Schools.

Check out the video to hear from educators and students about their experience in the Medical Careers Academy.