Story by Joe Vinduska
Photo by Courtney Liebl
Those seeking a credential as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) have the chance do so at no charge thanks to a generous anonymous donor and a collaboration between Barton Community College, Good Samaritan of Ellsworth, and an anonymous charitable donor.
The CNA class is set for June 5- July 30 with classes being every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 4p-9 p.m. The class is 90 hours in length and will last 8 weeks. Ten students will be selected for each class, with additional students added to a waitlist. After selection, applicants must still apply to Barton Community College and successfully pass a reading test prior to enrolling in the CNA class. Students must be 16 years of age by the first day of class. High School students must have written permission from a guardian and their high school principal to receive college credit. Students must also pass a background check, provide immunization records, and other requirements that will be communicated to students. To sign up, visit https://forms.office.com/r/kPfdMzg9SG.
Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA) are certified professionals that provide direct care to patients in hospitals and residents in long-term care facilities. CNAs assist with tasks including taking vitals, dressing, eating, toileting, bathing, and personal hygiene. Becoming a CNA is a chance to begin a long-term career in healthcare and opens the door to a wide variety of work settings. CNAs make a difference in the lives of the patients and residents they serve.
Registered Nurse Tami Birkholz is an Adjunct CNA instructor here at Barton Community College. This is her fifth summer teaching the CNA courses. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Students will find her to be a competent, energetic instructor with a wealth of experience.
“I am thrilled to be teaching the 2023 CNA class and am hopeful that this year’s students will become active in the Ellsworth Medical community.”
For more information, please contact Adult Healthcare Programs Coordinator Tana Yellowwolf at [email protected] or (620) 792-9298.