Central Arizona College Provides Health Career Exploration Opportunity for Local Youth
By Angela Askey, Executive Director Public Relations and Marketing
PINAL COUNTY, Ariz. – During the week of June 6, local Casa Grande Elementary School District children participated in a Healthcare Career Camp which included visits to Sunlife, Banner Casa Grande Medical Center, CAVIT and Central Arizona College.
Twenty-two students participated in a three hour event at CAC which showcased health career program options. Students gained a greater appreciation and understanding of various health professions by participating in interactive activities. They were able to look at unusual x-rays from the Radiologic Technology program; the Pharmacy Technician director taught the students how to accurately and quickly count “pills” (using M&M’s); and the EMT/Paramedic program explained the variety of duties and dangers of being a Paramedic. Other programs highlighted included Massage Therapy, Medical Assisting, Health Information Management, Clinical Lab Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant, Fire Science, and Dietetic Education. The Greater Valley Health Education Center (GVAHEC) provided an enjoyable health education game for the students and insulated lunch containers as well.
Students learned about the opportunities CAC provides and the Promise for the Future Scholarship. During the eighth grade they can sign a Promise for the Future contract. By maintaining a 2.75 GPA, completing a set number of community service hours and graduating from a Pinal County high school they become eligible for free tuition at any of the college’s campuses for up to four consecutive semesters.
“This collaborative effort among CAC faculty, staff, community partners and the Casa Grande Elementary School District allows students to gain a greater appreciation and understanding, not only of CAC, but all health professions,” stated Kim Bentley, CAC instructional specialist and event coordinator.
For more than 45 years, Central Arizona College has been serving and educating the diverse communities of Pinal County. With five campuses and three centers located strategically throughout the county, CAC provides accessible, educational, economic, cultural, and personal growth opportunities for those of all ages.
Angela Askey
Executive Director of Public Relations & Marketing
Central Arizona College
8470 N. Overfield Road
Coolidge, AZ 85128
Phone: 520-494-5485
