Thirteen students from the Queen Creek Unified School District will complete a two-year program that includes clinical, written and proficiency exams, and finish the academic year as a Certified Nursing Assistant.

This certification is one of many that can be earned through the district’s career and technical education programs.

According to a press release, these students are now qualified to work as nursing assistants in the medical industry, which has suffered from a shortage of talent in recent years.

“These students and nursing teachers have worked extremely hard this year to reach this goal,” said Heidi Lee, Director of College and Career Readiness and CTE, in a release. “We are proud to offer a wide range of programs that encourage students to follow their passions and provide them with the real-world experience and tools they need to succeed.”

Nursing programs will be available in all QCUSD high schools in the 2023-2024 school year.