Preparing the healthcare professionals of tomorrow is crucial for the well-being of our community. The Health Care Academy stands as a pioneering collaboration between Tacoma Public Schools, leading healthcare industries, higher education institutions, and non-profit organizations. This unique program is meticulously designed to equip high school students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the diverse and expanding healthcare sector.
Offered at Stadium and Mount Tahoma High Schools, this comprehensive four-year, part-time program immerses students in a rich learning environment. Throughout their journey, students progressively build healthcare competencies and gain invaluable experiences. This structured approach not only enhances their academic learning but also paves the way for successful college admissions and ultimately, careers that offer a sustainable living wage.
In the initial two years, spanning ninth and tenth grades, the Health Care Academy curriculum is focused on igniting students’ passions and broadening their horizons within healthcare. Students have the opportunity to earn up to five industry-recognized certifications, providing them with tangible credentials early in their academic careers. They are introduced to a wide spectrum of healthcare pathways through interactions with college representatives and seasoned professionals. The coursework during these formative years is intentionally designed to be both academically rigorous and experientially rich, ensuring students are actively engaged and challenged. Both participating high schools boast state-of-the-art healthcare labs, mirroring professional settings and equipped with training equipment akin to those found in college-level institutions. This allows students to engage in hands-on activities, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application from day one.
As students advance into eleventh and twelfth grades, the Health Care Academy program intensifies its focus on college and career readiness. The curriculum delves deeper into specialized healthcare fields, demanding more intensive coursework and practical application. Crucially, strong connections with college partners are fostered, providing students with direct access to information about healthcare programs, the college admissions process, available scholarships, and financial aid opportunities. Furthermore, through the Tacoma Public Schools’ Next Move Internship Program, upper-level students can opt to participate in a range of experiential learning opportunities. These include comprehensive healthcare internships, ranging from 60 to 90 hours, guided by experienced industry mentors. Students can also choose to engage in shorter “shadowing” experiences, typically 6 to 8 hours, allowing them to observe real-world healthcare settings, including college labs and healthcare facilities. One-on-one informational interviews with healthcare professionals and healthcare-related volunteer activities are also encouraged, providing diverse avenues for career exploration and networking.
Throughout all four years of the Health Care Academy, a robust support system is in place to ensure every student’s success. Students benefit from the camaraderie and collaborative learning environment of their peer cohort, as well as mentorship from upper-level students. Dedicated high school teachers, many of whom bring direct experience from the healthcare field, provide expert instruction and guidance. A career readiness internship coach offers specialized support for career planning and internship placements. College healthcare program students and staff actively engage with the academy students, offering insights and encouragement. Working healthcare professionals volunteer their time and expertise, further enriching the learning experience. Beyond the classroom, students are encouraged to participate in the after-school healthcare club, HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America). HOSA provides a platform for students to hone their leadership skills, engage in team-based projects, and compete at the annual state competition, fostering both personal and professional growth.
