Kinston High Students Kickstart Healthcare Careers with State Certification
Seven seniors at Kinston High School are entering the final months of high school with an added credential to their names. This fall, they earned their Certified Nursing Assistant credentials through the Lancer Academy, a career and technical education partnership with Lenoir Community College. In a single semester, the group completed the coursework, clinical hours, and state testing required for certification. All seven passed both the written exam and the hands-on skills test.
The pathway is designed to move students from theory to practice with intention. Instructor Margo Phillips said the progression prepares them for what they will face in the field. “Students complete about 10 to 11 weeks of theory and lab work where they learn 43 essential skills,” she said. “They practice everything from taking vital signs and assisting with daily care to safely transferring patients. After that, they complete 42 hours of clinical experience in a nursing facility. By the time they test, they are prepared.”
Preparation, the students said, made all the difference once they entered clinicals.
For Trinity Gantt, the experience solidified her long-term goal of becoming a registered nurse specializing in labor and delivery or women’s health. “Taking this class put me a step ahead,” she said. “When I get to nursing school, I will already understand the terminology and have real healthcare experience.” The transition from classroom practice to patient care left a lasting impression. “What we practiced in class became real life. That first day made everything feel real. It showed me the responsibility that comes with the job.” She said the experience taught her patience above all else. “You have to take your time and really understand what someone needs. That is something I will carry with me.”
That sense of responsibility resonated across the cohort.
Kayla Dunk began high school unsure of her future plans, but health science classes helped her find direction. “Taking health science opened my eyes to patient care,” she said. “Clinicals were my favorite part. It was hard work and very hands-on, but I built connections with the residents and learned what healthcare is truly like.” She believes the early exposure will ease her transition to college. “I have already had exposure to the field, so I will not feel completely lost. I know what to expect.” She also credits the group’s shared determination. “We worked hard for this. We studied together, practiced our skills and supported each other. Even when our skills test was delayed, we stayed ready and all seven of us passed.”
Emily Williams said the experience affirmed something she has long known about herself. “I have always enjoyed taking care of others,” she said. “Clinicals were challenging, but they pushed me forward and showed me that this is the right path for me.” Along the way, she said, the program strengthened skills that extend beyond healthcare. “You learn how to work with different personalities and stay focused in a fast-paced setting. That will help me in college and in my career.”
Phillips said watching students reach certification before they even receive their diplomas underscores the impact of the partnership. “This gives them real experience before they commit to years of schooling,” she said. “For many of them, this is the foundation for becoming a registered nurse or continuing into advanced healthcare roles.”
For these seniors, the foundation is already in place. As graduation approaches, they are not only finishing high school, but they are stepping forward with credentials, confidence, and a clearer sense of the work ahead.
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