It was an event 20 years in the making but CFBISD hosted its first-ever BioMed Academy reunion last week at the district’s Nancy Watten Technology and Event Center. The gathering consisted of alumni who graduated from the R. L. Turner High School-based academy between 2003-22. Currently enrolled students also attended.

Alumni who attended the event shared stories of how the BioMed program taught them valuable life skills and was a major factor in preparing them for their careers. 

“I am a registered nurse at Parkland hospital in labor and delivery,” said Yasly Sandoval, BioMed alumni. “Because of BioMed, I was able to get my Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license. I am so thankful for this program.”

Many of the alumni have received certifications in Electrocardiogram (EKG), Phlebotomy, Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and more. These certifications have helped students with their careers and have served as a financial tool to help them pay for college.   

Metrocrest Hospital Authority (MHA) generously funds and provides mentorship and guidance for the BioMed program. 

“We are proud to be sponsors of the BioMed Academy at R. L. Turner High School,” said John Mahalik, Chief Executive Officer of the MHA. “We have been with the program since the beginning and it has been gratifying to see the growth and impact it has had on students and the community.”

Several MHA board members shared that listening to stories from alumni showed them how BioMed is making a difference in multiple communities. 

“It’s great to see what this program has done for the kids,” said William Rohloff, MHA Board Member. “Most of them have gone on to medical or health care careers.”

“BioMed is a foundation for skills that are necessary to be successful in college and future career,” said Cristal Retana, BioMed alumni and MHA Board Member.

To hear alumni and MHA staff share stories about the BioMed Academy at the reunion, please watch this video.

The BioMed Academy at R. L. Turner High School has approximately 200 students in grades 9-12 who are interested in health science-related areas of study. It is part of CFBISD’s health science Career and Technical Education (CTE) program that develops students who are trained, certified and hirable after they graduate high school. To learn more about the program, please visit the BioMed Academy website.