CLARION, Pa. — Clarion County Career Center Practical Nursing Program is graduating its 64th Class of nurses on August 18, 2017, at Clarion Area High School.
The Practical Nursing Program has been in existence since 1981 and has graduated nurses every year. This year 25 Full-Time and 19 Part-Time students will be graduating and are readily obtaining employment. Fifteen of the Full-Time class has already been hired. The remainder are in the process of obtaining employment. These facts show the need for nurses. In fact, the American Nurses Association states that the nursing shortage is real. There is a growing realization and concern that the supply of nurses is inadequate to meet the needs of the population. The shortage is growing more serious and will continue for the next 20 years. This is evidenced by the current aging population and the decrease in the number of nurses taking the State Board examination.
One can see from these facts that nursing is a career that would be a dependable source of income, as well as a rewarding one while helping others. Many more nurses are needed and Practical Nursing education can be accomplished within one year. It is a process that can have a person employed and earning an adequate wage within that short time period.
At least two students who are graduating this August attended the Allied Health Program of Clarion County Career Center, which is taught by Mrs. Traci Wildeson, during the three years previous to the Practical Nursing Program.
Miranda Bowser, who is from Rimersburg, says that she learned so much from the Allied Health Program that helped her with her nursing education.
She states, “I have absolutely no regrets going through the Practical Nursing Program and am so blessed to have been a part of it. I learned many skills and lessons. I urge everyone to follow their dreams and not let anyone stop you.”
Casey Allaman at a very young age said she was going to be a nurse. She even quarantined her family, saying they were all sick and not allowed to leave the house (when she was five).
“Mrs. Wildeson (Allied Health) helped me grow as a person and in my knowledge of nursing. Nursing education is very worth the effort. Yes, we had to get up early and study, study, study. Many of us worked while we were in school. Don’t let your doubts or fears hold you back from your dreams. Go for it and become an amazing nurse in one year at a school in your local area,” states Casey.
The school is very proud of all the graduates. They learned the art and science of nursing, as well as a great deal about themselves.
Financial Aid is available for those who qualify. There are scholarships available for Native Americans.
For more information on the Practical Nursing Program at the Clarion County Career Center, please contact 814-226-5857, ext. 160, Tammy Delp, Secretary.
Mrs. Ann Stanonis-Manes is the Practical Nursing Program Coordinator.
