Polk County Schools College and Career Academy students know much more about possible health care careers, thanks to an event organized by Atrium Health Floyd at the academy’s Cedartown High School campus.
“We really wanted the students to get a broader look at health care career options,” said Angela Shuman-Smith, executive director of 6-12 curriculum and CTAE (career, technical and agricultural education) for the school system.
“So many times when you say health care, students automatically think doctor or nurse, but there are so many other opportunities available,” Shuman-Smith said. “This event is great and really gave students a better look at so many options.”
About 750 health care students from the career academies at Rockmart High School and Cedartown High School attended.
Atrium Health Floyd representatives from the following service areas were present at Friday’s event:
- imaging-diagnostics
- radiology
- rehabilitation
- emergency medical services
- laboratory
- surgery
- pharmacy
- respiratory therapy
- nursing
- nursing education
- talent acquisition.
Student Abbie Crenshaw, a senior, was browsing the different tables, seeing what options may appeal to her. She didn’t hesitate when asked.
“I would really like to be an EMT,” Crenshaw said. “What they do, I think it’s really interesting.”
Atrium Health Floyd is the official health care provider for the Polk School District, staffing school nurses, athletic trainers at Rockmart High School and Cedartown High School, EMS athletic and event support and providing virtual visits so that students and staff can see a doctor without leaving campus.