District 186 is committed to college and career readiness, and our middle schools are embracing innovative ways to prepare students for the future. Last week, 8th grade health students at Jefferson Middle School got an exciting look into healthcare careers thanks to Memorial Health. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS
As part of the Healthcare Career Exploration Pilot, students explored what it takes to become healthcare professionals and stepped into those roles through immersive virtual reality simulations. They practiced giving X-rays, treating virtual wounds, and learning how real medical professionals care for patients—all while connecting these experiences directly to their classroom health curriculum.
The program pairs foundational health topics, like the effects of vaping or smoking, with careers such as respiratory therapists, radiologic technologists, and more. Memorial Health supports the program with career-focused materials, lesson guides, and facilitator resources, helping students see how the concepts they learn in school relate to meaningful work in healthcare.
According to Ashley Damery, Senior Workforce Development Consultant at Memorial Health, experiences like this open students’ minds to medical careers they may never have considered, strengthening both their skills and their confidence. Jefferson students were immersed in hands-on, career-focused learning that could shape their paths long before high school graduation.
This pilot program will expand to Grant Middle School in spring 2026, continuing District 186’s dedication to providing students with real-world experiences that prepare them for success in college, careers, and life. 🩺✨