Civil Municipal Magazine - Dec 2023

243 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 12 BEN HI LL COUNT Y SCHOOL DISTRICT empty building, but it also offers a space for the county to have office space and hold commission meetings. “It’s right on our elementary campus where we do most of our 4H work with fourth and fifth grade, so they’ll be able to transition to that building and have 4H activities,” she adds. In another example, a partnership with Dorminy Medical Center has led to an investment of $200,000 into the state-of-the-art nursing lab at the high school. This lab mirrors a real- life doctor’s office, providing students with a hands-on learning experience where they gain access to essential equipment. Students also have the unique opportunity to tour surgical settings, offering them a glimpse into the dedication required for a career in healthcare. “They’ve supported us 100% since we got into our new school, and our Career Academy actually named its nursing lab Dorminy Medical Center Health Lab,” reports Clements. In addition, the district has fostered valuable partnerships with local nursing homes, creating a platform for CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) students to complete their clinical training. This practical exposure equips students with a valuable skill set, allowing them to become certified nursing assistants, some as early as age 16, empowering them with employable skills right out of high school. BHCS has also partnered with Millex, a hotel furniture manufacturer, who have invested $60,000 into the district’s robotics program. “Our robotics and engineering students have actually made a part that they use at Millex Corporation,” boasts Clements. “It’s been very interesting to see how our students can use 3D printing and things of that nature to help with the robotics at a corporation. Our teacher and the Millex president have made a commitment to help one another. And we named our engineering lab the Millex Robotics Lab.” A strong relationship with Wiregrass Technical College is another a component for the success of many students in Ben Hill County. “They have a really good nursing program, it’s one of the best in the state, and they have a bridge