Information Sessions Dec 3 and 4 about CNA Job Training Program for English Language Learners

The Community Learning Center’s healthcare training program for English language learners started in 2013, and since then has graduated 10 cohorts. Students meet 4 hours a night, Monday-Thursday, preparing to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Home Health Aide (HHA) in a hospital, long term care facility or a private home. Residents and City Employees are invited to information sessions to learn more on Tuesday, December 3 from 12:15 – 1:15 PM, and Wednesday, December 4 from 6:30 – 7:30. Both sessions will be held at 5 Western Ave, in the Conference Room.

Over the semester-long training program, students gain a wide range of skills including communication, direct patient care, basic math, and how to prepare for a career in the healthcare field. Students who successfully complete the program will have earned certifications in CPR/AED, Dementia Patient Care, CNA Training, and are eligible to take the MA State Certification Exam.

Once the students complete their classes, they begin meeting with CLC’s career advisors to help them find meaningful employment in their new fields. Some graduates go on to enroll in college to become nurses or occupational or physical therapists. As CNA graduate Stephanie Guillaume noted during the June 2019 graduation ceremony, “The completion of the CNA program helped me, a person who is passionate about working in a healthcare setting. After successfully completing my state exam, I was once again given the help of a career advisor for my job search, and I was able to get a job faster than I had assumed. The program requires focus and dedication, and I am grateful that I was accepted… It has opened many doors for me and is aiding me on my path of becoming an RN. It has given me the opportunity to work in facilities that I otherwise wouldn't have gotten a chance to. This program allows a person to have a career, a steady job and a purpose.”

The next CNA training program will start in early February 2020. Please encourage interested people to come for the information sessions on December 3^rd or 4^th, or to contact Bayyinah Pandolfo for more information. She can be reached at 617-349-6371 or bpandolfo@cambridgema.gov