Columbus Technical College (CTC) and Chattahoochee County High School's career academy – Chattahoochee Valley Academy (CVA) – have been selected to pilot a healthcare program for Governor Brian P. Kemp’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER II) Award. 

Governor Kemp recently announced the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Pilot Program.  The pilot is designed in support of Georgia’s College and Career Academies – partnered with their local technical colleges and healthcare providers – to create a streamlined path for students seeking careers in healthcare.

"Here in Georgia, we are committed to meeting the needs of our young people as they prepare to enter our world-class workforce following years of pandemic disruptions, and we are excited to see how this program will make a difference in their lives as it also helps us fulfill a critical workforce need," said Governor Brian Kemp.

The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) chose the partnership between CTC and CVA in conjunction with Magnolia Manor of Marion County in Buena Vista, GA, as one of only 10 pilot programs statewide.  The award funding will offset tuition costs of the Technical College Nurse Aide program and pay for each participant’s CNA exam costs.  

Martha Ann Todd, President of Columbus Technical College said, “This joint partnership sponsored by the Governor’s office and linking strong community outlets from the high school, technical college and industry levels is strategic alignment at its best. Working together to both meet the needs of the healthcare industry and to empower pathways for young people in the Chattahoochee Valley area makes us excellent public stewards of the future trajectories of both business and education. Columbus Technical College is excited to partner and contribute to what has been a 100% pass rate on student CNA exams in this program over the last three years. We believe that the additional support this pilot will provide will serve to further enhance what is possible for these scholars.”  

Under program guidelines, eligibility will initially be granted to high school Sophomore and Junior candidates.  The overarching goal for this grant is to address current healthcare industry shortages while also assisting students with obtaining career opportunities as quickly as possible. 

“To be selected for this opportunity is a great honor and testament to the work we have with our partners.  To see the potential in students and to give them this opportunity while also addressing shortages in the healthcare industry by hiring students who will contribute to our region is life changing,” said Dr. Kristie Brooks, Superintendent of Chattahoochee County Schools.