Ottawa County Health Center and USD 239 North Ottawa County Public Schools have partnered to create additional learning opportunities for students and provide additional support for student-athlete safety.
By forging a partnership, Ottawa County Health Center was instrumental in launching the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), a career technical student organization that fosters student interest in healthcare careers, develops technical skills, and provides opportunities for Minneapolis High School students to connect with medical professionals. Leaders at Ottawa County Health Center secured a $4,000 grant and are working with Mrs. Giles, MJSHS Health Science Pathway instructor, to plan medical internship opportunities for health science students.
Beyond the classroom, Ottawa County Health Center is also sponsoring a medical professional to work with the school to help assess athletic injuries, provide guidance, and promote safe participation for students involved in athletics. USD 239 Board of Education approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the hospital to pilot this program during the 26-27 school year.
“Partnerships are crucial for small rural schools because they allow us to leverage learning opportunities and resources that we could not provide as a district,” said USD 239 Superintendent Dr. Curtis Stevens. “It is about giving our students access to real-world experiences while also helping our community’s healthcare providers connect with the next generation of potential employees.”
Jody Parks, CEO of the Ottawa County Health Center and parent of an MJSHS student, commented on the new partnerships. "Ottawa County Health Center is excited to partner with USD 239. Strong schools and strong healthcare go hand in hand in a rural community, and by investing in our students, we're investing in the future of Ottawa County. Through the new HOSA chapter, we hope students discover a passion for healthcare and are inspired to pursue careers in the medical field, with the goal of someday returning home to serve our community. We're also pleased to support the school and its student-athletes, and we look forward to expanding this partnership in the years ahead."
Both partnerships represent a true win-win for students, the school, the medical community, and student safety. Such cooperation reflects our vision of being a premier community that inspires all to learn, work, and thrive.