AC introduces program for English learners who want to become nurse assistants

The Continuing Healthcare Certified Nursing Assistant Program for English Language Learners will be piloted, beginning June 5, at AC’s Everett & Mabel Hinkson Memorial Campus in Hereford.

English language learners interested in registering for the 12-week program must attend one of two informational meetings being presented in room 103 of the Hinkson Campus — 1115 West 15th St. in Hereford — at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, or at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 12.

The pilot program is a collaboration between AC’s Adult Education and Literacy Program and the Health Sciences Division. Students in the program will attend classes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Thursday — with the first half of each day devoted to a mandatory English as a Second Language (ESL) class intended to support the mainstream CNA class, which will be conducted each afternoon.

Total cost of the CNA Program is approximately $1,230; however, financial assistance is available for eligible students through Workforce Solutions in Hereford.

Thanks to a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission, the required ESL class will be provided at no cost to students, but only students with high-intermediate or advanced-level command of basic English can be accepted into the CNA program. Free English-language assessments will be administered May 16-17 at the Hinkson Campus.

Successful completion of the program prepares students to sit for the state CNA certification exam. CNAs provide basic patient care under direction of nursing staff and earn, on average, $26,343 a year, according to Start Here Careers.

Once the pilot program proves successful in Hereford, it will additionally be offered at AC’s West Campus in Amarillo, beginning next fall, according to Matthew Piech, coordinator of AC’s ESL Program.

For more information about the pilot program that begins June 5 in Hereford, or about the two important informational meetings April 11 and 12 at the Hinkson Campus in Hereford, please contact Mr. Piech at (806) 371-5918.