VITAL POLICY – Focus on Jefferson County CTE Education, Health Science

Health Care is the second fastest growing industry in the United States according to Entrepreneur, a publication that tracks industrial trends and promotes business start-ups. In fact, 23% of the upper East Tennessee regional workforce is related to or dependent on health care businesses. This consists of direct healthcare and all the supporting industries related to it.

Jefferson County High School (JCHS) is ahead of the business curve with respect to preparing students for good paying careers in healthcare. Three highly qualified teachers, Amanda Hansel, Lisa Hall, and Kaitlyn Winstead deliver instruction through the following courses, Health Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Therapeutics, Medical Assisting, Nursing Education, Clinical Internship and Pharmacological Science.

A link to the state course standards is provided here.

The quality of instruction is made obvious by the accomplishments of Health Science students including a high pass rate on the Certified Nursing Assistant Exam as compared to the statewide pass rate. Health Science Teachers at JCHS CTE have started a pharmacology program with students already passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam. In the month of May 2025, health science students will be testing for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant certification.

Adding to the inventory of high-quality resources provided to health science students, several businesses and medical providers give Jefferson County students job shadowing experience. Those organizations are as follows: Covenant Health, Tennova, Health Star, Jefferson Park-partner and WBL, Dollywood-WBL lifeguard, Dandridge Pediatric Dentist, Tri-Star, Optimus, Benchmark, and Jefferson County Elementary school nurses.

Other industry sponsors donate supplies such as gowns and gloves for student practice.

Students are encouraged to participate in two student youth organizations, Health Occupations Students of America and Skills USA.

Students in the Health Science Program hold their teachers in very high esteem. Here is what a few of them had to say about their teachers, industry sponsors, and health science courses.

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS

“Jefferson County’s health program has been the highlight of my four years at Jefferson County High School. Having access to an education that centers around the medical field has been such a blessing and has helped me figure out my next steps in life. Mrs. Hansel and Mrs. Hall have been such amazing mentors and have truly helped me prepare for my future”- said Ella Smith, Student

“Having an educator like Lisa Hall provides a great upper-hand opportunity within healthcare for students. Mrs. Hall never fails to supply clarity when she teaches all content, and she also makes sure provide interactive lessons. Being a student in Mrs. Halls class, I was never afraid to ask questions as she is easily approachable and has a positive affective presence.” – said Zoë Lawson, Student

“Personally, my teachers Mrs. Hansel and Mrs. Hall of Jefferson County High school, have had a profound impact on my future career plans. They’ve challenged, inspired, and paved the way for me to see the true potential I hold having a career in healthcare.” – said Hailey James, Student

“Our school’s health programs at Jefferson County are so beneficial for all of the students. It helps them get experience and exposure for their future. There is something for everyone. Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Hansel are amazing teachers as well as great advocates to look up to. They give you amazing advice and are always there for you when you need them. I recommend taking health science classes to everyone who is interested in pursuing a medical career.”- said Kasyn Adkins, Student

“Clinical internship is an eye-opening experience because you are learning and observing patients in person and are able to apply your knowledge from textbooks to real life!” – said Natilee Sammons, Student

“Both Mrs. Hansel and Mrs. Hall are passionate about their jobs, striving to create the best outcome for us students” – said Annamarie Paulos, Student

“Being a student that is a hands-on and visual learner, my health science educator, Amanda Hansel, has done an outstanding job helping me retain information that fits best within my learning style. Mrs. Hansel always makes sure to provide demonstrations, visual pictures, assist when needed and have patience with students when teaching difficult courses. She is easily everything a student could need in a teacher.”- said Zoë Lawson, Student

“The health science program is something I would highly recommend for anyone wanting to seek a career in the medical field. It has allowed me to start my medical career by earning my CNA license. Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Hansel are two of the best teachers I’ve ever had! They’re passionate about their work and care for all their students.” – said Annie Moore, Student

“I absolutely loved our health science program at the high school! Mrs. Hall and Mrs.

Hansel both gave me the opportunity to start my nursing career early by earning my CAN license. Mrs. Hall and Mrs. Hansel are both so caring and supportive of every student they have. They want the best for everyone!” – said Kylee Bruce, Student

“Taking health program courses at Jefferson County High School has majorly impacted and broadened my knowledge within healthcare. Though, my favorite class I have taken in this program is Medical Assisting. Every day it prepares me for real-world medical

circumstances, establishes a great healthcare foundation, and provides me with job opportunities after I graduate high school.” – said Zoë Lawson, Student

TEACHER NARATIVES

Teacher Kaitlyn Winstead

“As a Health Science teacher at Jefferson County High School, I work with students who often come from diverse backgrounds and with varying learning needs, making it crucial for me to incorporate flexible teaching methods that meet the students where they are. Our primary goal in this class is to introduce you to the various careers available in the healthcare field. Whether you aspire to be a doctor, nurse, medical technician, or healthcare administrator, understanding the options available and the pathway to these careers is essential.

I frequently utilize project-based activities, group discussions, research, and technology integration. For instance, I implement a number of projects where students must research a topic (from each unit) and present their research to this class. This encourages them to think critically, dig deeper into the topic, and develop presentation and speaking skills.

“My goal is to not only impart knowledge but also to cultivate a love for learning and learning to care for patients in healthcare. Through these hands-on experiences and incorporation of research assignments, I believe my students are able to further knowledge while they develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills, equipping them to succeed academically and beyond. Health Science Occupations is a great foundational course that prepares students to move into the next-level courses that Jefferson County’s Health Science pathway has to offer.”

Teacher Lisa Hall

“I am a registered nurse with over 20 years of bedside nursing and management experience. As a nurse who transitioned into education, what I enjoy most about

teaching students is the opportunity to shape the next generation of caregivers and instill in them a sense of compassion, responsibility, and professionalism. It is incredibly rewarding to see students gain confidence in their skills and knowledge, knowing they will make a meaningful difference in patient’s lives. I love being able to bridge the gap between theory and hands-on practice. Watching students go from being unsure of basic tasks to performing them with competence and empathy is fulfilling. Every time I witness a student get it – whether it is mastering a clinical skill or understanding the importance of patient centered care—it reinforces my passion for education.

Teacher Amanda Hansel

“For 15 years, I had the honor and privilege of serving as a pediatric nurse at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. My days were filled with providing compassionate care to children and their families, building trusting relationships, and navigating complex medical cases. During this time, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that proper healthcare education, understanding, and advocacy can have on the well-being of young patients.

Over the years, I became increasingly passionate about health education, particularly in empowering young people to take an active role in their own health and well-being. It became clear to me that there was an opportunity to make an even broader impact—one that could help shape future healthcare professionals and inspire young minds to pursue careers in the healthcare field.

Driven by this desire, I transitioned from my clinical role as a pediatric nurse to becoming a Health Science educator at Jefferson County High School. The transition was both exciting and challenging, but I felt a deep sense of purpose as I took on this new role. I realized that teaching was not just about sharing knowledge, but also about inspiring students, encouraging them to ask questions, and giving them the tools to think critically about the world of healthcare and their own health.

As a Health Science teacher, I bring a wealth of real-world experience into the classroom. My clinical background has given me a unique perspective on healthcare that I’m eager to share with students. From patient care techniques to medical ethics and healthcare systems, I aim to provide students with both the foundational knowledge and the practical skills they need to succeed in the healthcare field. I also focus on the importance of empathy, teamwork, and communication—skills that are just as critical as technical knowledge in providing quality patient care.

Every day, I look forward to connecting with my students, hearing their thoughts and ideas, and guiding them through lessons that will help them grow as individuals and as future healthcare leaders. Whether they go on to pursue a career in healthcare or apply the principles of health science in their personal lives, I am confident that the knowledge they gain in my classroom will serve them for years to come.

The opportunity to teach at Jefferson County High School has been incredibly rewarding. I’m thrilled to have the chance to inspire the next generation of health professionals, just as I was inspired in my early days as a nurse. The transition from clinical care to education has allowed me to combine my passion for healthcare with my love of teaching, creating a unique and fulfilling journey that continues to evolve each day.”

The Career and Technical Education Department at Jefferson County High School is under the expert direction of Missy Hayes.

David Seal is a retired Jefferson County educator, recognized artist, local businessman, 917 Society Volunteer, and current Chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party. He has also served Jefferson County as a County Commissioner and is a citizen lobbyist for the people on issues such as eminent domain, property rights, education, and broadband accessibility on the state level.