Advancing the Academy of Health Careers for the Benefit of Students and Community

Kennedy speaks to Legislative Delegation regarding AHC Appropriations Request

On Monday, October 30, 2023, I had the privilege of representing the Citrus County School Board as we addressed the Citrus Legislative Delegation of Florida Senator Blaise Ingoglia and State Representative Dr. Massullo. Our purpose is to request appropriations for the 2024 Florida Legislative Session, aiming to secure additional special funding for the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School. This program plays a vital role in preparing our students for post-secondary education and careers in health, health-related sciences, and STEM fields. With 30 years of history, this institution has been a pioneer in Career Technical Education in Citrus County. Our commitment is unwavering as we strive to enhance its impact and secure a robust foundation for the future.

The Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School (CRHS) boasts a rich history of success, spanning three decades. It’s widely regarded as one of the most thriving high school Career Technical Education programs, not only in our district but possibly in the entire region. Over the years, this Academy has nurtured thousands of nurses, doctors, first responders, engineers, military leaders, and other health professionals. Its remarkable track record is a testament to the quality of education and training it offers, showcasing our dedication to our students’ futures.

At the Academy of Health Careers at CRHS, we have ambitious plans to expand our offerings. This includes upgrading our medical equipment to meet industry standards and providing additional opportunities and pathways. One of the most exciting developments is the inclusion of Firefighter 1 certification within the EMS/EMT pathway. We are also eager to introduce programs in Radiology, EKG, phlebotomy, and health management. These will complement the existing Certified Nursing Assistant, BioMedical Technician, Dental Assistant, EMS/EMT, and Veterinary Assistant Pathways.

We firmly believe that these initiatives in Career Technical Education are not only crucial for our students’ futures but also essential for addressing the pressing healthcare needs of our community and state. Recent state reports highlight an impending need for 1,000 medical professionals in this region, and 50,044 statewide in the coming year. By investing in these programs, we are not only equipping our students with valuable skills but also tackling the critical shortage in our local healthcare workforce.

Our commitment to Career Technical Education extends beyond the Academy of Health Careers. Presently, we offer over 155 CTE courses to our high school students, encompassing 70 industry certifications and connecting students to more than 38 different Programs of Study Pathways. These programs are pivotal in preparing our students for a diverse range of careers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to excel.

In the previous legislative session, we secured vital funding for our Construction Academy at Citrus High School thanks to the unwavering support and hard work of Florida Senator Blaise Ingoglia and State Representative Dr. Massullo. Their dedication to our community’s educational and healthcare needs is deeply appreciated. With their continued support, we are confident that we can continue to provide our students with outstanding opportunities for growth and success.

Investing further in the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School is an investment in the future of our students and the healthcare workforce of our community. We are steadfast in our commitment to providing our students with the best education and training available. The support we’ve received from our legislative delegation thus far is invaluable. Together, we can ensure that our students are well-prepared for the challenges of the future, meeting our community’s healthcare needs with a skilled and capable workforce.

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