EvergreenHealth Monroe, Monroe School District Partner to Provide Students Hands-On Career Training

MONROE, Wash. – EvergreenHealth Monroe is partnering with Monroe School District on its launch of a new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Monroe High School, providing students with a direct pathway to careers in health care. As a part of the program, students will receive hands-on learning from EvergreenHealth Monroe's acute care staff.

As a community-owned hospital, EvergreenHealth Monroe continuously seeks community partnerships to enhance the health and wellness of residents in the region. This partnership not only helps Monroe students develop critical skills for their future but also helps address a key need in the health care workforce.

"EvergreenHealth Monroe is very excited to be partnering with the Monroe School District, supporting local high school students on their career paths. CNAs play a vital role in delivering safe, high-quality, compassionate care for our patients," said EvergreenHealth Monroe Chief Nursing Officer Megan Wirsching, DNP. "Many traditional CNA programs aren't able to offer clinical experiences in acute, hospital-based care, making this collaboration unique and important. It is also a fantastic launching pad for those students interested in advancing their careers in health care."

The program was developed as part of the Monroe School District's five-year strategic plan, which prioritizes ensuring every student is prepared for their future. A key strategy within the plan is to build partnerships with local employers to align educational opportunities with workforce needs and prepare students for high-demand, livable-wage careers.

"The CNA program at Monroe High School is an example of how we are creating career pathways that connect classroom learning with real-world opportunities," said Monroe School District Superintendent Shawn Woodward. "With partners like EvergreenHealth Monroe, we are able to give students valuable health care experience while helping meet the growing demand for skilled health care professionals in our community."

There are currently 19 students enrolled in the inaugural first-semester cohort, with a similar number expected to enroll during the second semester. The two-period semester-long course is open to students in their junior or senior year and awards students one full elective credit. The course is designed to give them the practical knowledge they need to begin careers in settings like hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities.

The curriculum includes classroom instruction and hands-on learning, allowing students to apply concepts in real health care environments. Successfully completing the course will qualify students to take the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam for Washington State CNA certification.

About EvergreenHealth Monroe

EvergreenHealth Monroe is a community-owned public hospital district serving residents of Monroe, Sky Valley and Snohomish Valley. As a public hospital district, EvergreenHealth Monroe actively provides equal access to high-quality, high-value care, partnering with local organizations to perform outreach to address our community’s needs. Learn more at www.evergreenhealthmonroe.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Monroe School District

Monroe School District serves more than 5,600 students across 82 square miles in Monroe, Maltby, and surrounding communities in Snohomish County. The district includes 10 schools: five elementary schools, two middle schools, one comprehensive high school, and two alternative learning campuses. Guided by its strategic plan, Monroe School District partners with students, families, staff, and the community to provide engaging learning experiences that prepare every student for a successful future. Learn more at www.monroe.wednet.edu.

Media Contacts:

Cody Miller
EvergreenHealth
(425) 899-1871
Cotmiller@evergreenhealthcare.org

Kristi Herriott
Firmani + Associates Inc.
(206) 466-2702
Kristi@firmani.com