Phoebe Putney Health System has launched a program to get more students into health care jobs and prepare them to continue their education toward higher levels in the nursing career.

When high school students graduate, they will have not only a diploma but also a CNA, or certified nursing assistant credential, plus as many as 30 dual enrollment hours and a year’s experience through a paid internship. It’s a firm foundation to start a career immediately or get a big jump-start on a four-year nursing degree.

With support and guidance from SREB, Phoebe worked with the “4C” Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy, Albany Technical College, Albany State University and the Georgia Department of Education to align education offerings with hands-on skills and critical thinking.