Students Complete HACC Programs, Gain Skills to be Work-Ready
Almost 20 MAHS students completed programs at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) this school year and are now equipped with the skills, training, and certifications for some of the most in demand careers.
The programs were offered to students as part of MASD’s Career Readiness Initiative, under the direction of Mr. Adam Shaffer, MASD Career and Workforce Development Coordinator.
Eight seniors successfully completed their first college experience as part of the HACC Academy Welding Program and received their certifications at a ceremony this spring. The year-long program was held at HACC’s Midtown Campus and students attended class one day a week, working on various welding techniques and classroom work. The students also earned six HACC college credits and are automatically accepted into the HACC Welding Program, if they decide to pursue that path. More importantly though, the students learned a life-long skill that will certainly come in handy whatever career they choose. Students completing the program and pictured below are Kurtis Wagner, Talan Baxter, Nathan Kline, David Kemmerling, Camillo Gasper, Evan Mariano, Malcolm Taalibuuden, and Bryce Hrivnak (front).
In the medical arena, seven seniors and one junior participated in HACC's year-long, one day a week EMT Program. In April, students had their EMT Skill Test, responding to mock emergencies, similar to those EMS professionals deal with everyday. The students participated as providers and patients and were
evaluated on their ability to think critically, adapt, and work as a team while overcoming obstacles. Students completing the EMT program included: Aaliyah Allensworth, Yari Reyes, Peyton Attivo, Hailey Hemperly, Kiersten Perrelli, Claire Munnelly, Anthony Santos, Adam Moore and Troy Knull.
In a new partnership with HACC, four MAHS students successfully completed Middletown’s first-ever Nurse Aide Program in the fall. Students Isabella Ruiz, Chloe Ponnett, Gabby Radabaugh, and Arianna Serrano (pictured below) had the opportunity to learn all the necessary skills and curriculum required to take their state examination, which will make them Certified Nurse Assistants (CNA). In collaboration with HACC, clinicals were completed at Messiah Lifeways in Mechanicsburg and allowed the students to demonstrate the necessary knowledge and skills required for employment. These students can now work at any facility which requires the CNA certification and in collaboration with Masonic Village, these students will have an opportunity to begin their careers in the Science and Health Pathway.
MASD is incredibly proud of all the students for pursuing these career pathways and fulfilling the MASD Vision of ensuring students graduate equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Best of luck to all students in your next chapter - we know you will make MASD Raider Proud!