April 21, 2023
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 Â鶹¹ÙÍø, 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 4-9 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 Â鶹¹ÙÍø 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 .
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 Â鶹¹ÙÍø. 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.â€
For more information, please contact Adult Healthcare Programs Coordinator Tana Yellowwolf at yellowwolft@bartonccc.edu or (620) 792-9298.
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