Erica Wilson, a dedicated health science teacher at Marshall High School, is making significant strides in equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful careers in healthcare. Through an expanded curriculum that now incorporates certifications in phlebotomy, medical assisting, and electrocardiography (EKG), Wilson is opening up a world of opportunities for her students.

Empowering Students with Healthcare Certifications at Marshall High School

Expanding Curriculum to Meet Industry Demands

Five years ago, Wilson introduced phlebotomy to the school's curriculum, and since then, the program has grown exponentially. Currently, nearly 400 students are enrolled across various health science courses. Wilson, with her seven years of teaching experience at Marshall High School and as a practicing lab technician at Christus Good Shepherd, brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the classroom.She initiated the phlebotomy program to address the growing demands of the healthcare industry and provide students with marketable skills. As she recalls, "When I first arrived, we only had a small certified nursing assistant (CNA) program with about 10 students. I saw the potential to expand by adding programs like medical assisting and phlebotomy, which are highly sought after in healthcare."Today, Marshall High's health science program has expanded to include six dual-credit courses offered through Panola College. This allows students to earn certifications and college credits while still in high school. Enrollment has surged to 396 students, making it one of the largest career and technical education programs on campus.

Preparing Students for Immediate Job Opportunities

Wilson attributes the growth of the program to its alignment with industry needs. "I had to demonstrate why these programs were necessary," she said. "Healthcare requires trained professionals, and these courses prepare students for immediate job opportunities. The response from students, parents, and the community has been overwhelmingly positive."Students start their journey in the program as freshmen with foundational courses like principles of health science. Over the next four years, they progress through subjects such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology. By the time they enter certification courses in their junior and senior years, they are well-prepared for hands-on training."We start with the basics like safety, bloodborne pathogens, and patient communication," Wilson said. "By October, phlebotomy students are already practicing live draws. Once they overcome that first patient interaction, their confidence soars."In addition to clinical skills, students learn about the legal and ethical aspects of healthcare, including HIPAA compliance. They also gain trauma training, CPR certification, and hands-on experience with advanced equipment like centrifuges.Through partnerships with Christus Good Shepherd facilities in Marshall and Longview, students gain real-world experience during clinical rotations. Wilson emphasizes that the program's rigorous standards ensure students are prepared for professional environments. "Students don't just observe - they work," she said. "They're riding on my license during their rotations, so they must demonstrate competence and confidence before starting clinicals."

Establishing a Strong Track Record of Success

With a 100% pass rate for phlebotomy and medical assisting certification exams in recent years, the program has proven its effectiveness. Marshall High's health science program is set to grow further with a new state-of-the-art facility funded through a CTE bond project. The building will feature advanced labs, modern equipment, and specialized spaces to support the growing enrollment."This expansion is a testament to how far we've come," Wilson said. "Our students graduate with certifications, job-ready skills, and a strong foundation to pursue higher education or enter the workforce. It's exciting to see them succeed."