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November / December Article

It’s hard to believe we are already approaching Christmas break. The past few months have been incredibly busy, but students also took time to focus on gratitude and service. During November, students reflected on thankfulness by identifying meaningful aspects of their lives and discussing how they can continue practicing gratitude—an important skill for both personal wellness and future healthcare careers.

Students also completed a college research project, exploring potential post-secondary options by comparing costs, payment options, retention and graduation rates, campus safety, and possible healthcare-related majors.

Students will be starting their alphabetical disease study capstone project, where each student selects three diseases for each letter of the alphabet to research in depth. This long-term project will serve as a culminating experience, allowing students to build comprehensive knowledge of disease processes while strengthening research, organization, and presentation skills.

Another major accomplishment was the completion of their teaching projects, where students planned and delivered healthcare lessons—such as proper handwashing, dental hygiene, exercise, and personal care—to younger students in local schools (up to 5th grade). These experiences allowed students to practice communication, leadership, and community engagement.

In December, students volunteered their time ringing bells for the Salvation Army at various locations, giving back to the community during the holiday season. Academically, students also completed the first two foundational chapters of Medical Terminology, which they felt were much easier related to their weekly Medical Term quizzes that we began in the fall. 

As we move through December, we encourage everyone to take time for self-care, spread kindness, and remember the importance of proper handwashing and good nutrition—especially during the busy holiday season. We wish you a healthy and happy month ahead.

October / November Article

The fall months have been filled with hands-on learning and creativity for our HOYA students. October began with a focus on community health as students designed and maintained a Diabetes Awareness bulletin board, reinforcing the importance of education and prevention in healthcare.

Students also continued strengthening their medical terminology skills through friendly competition using Medical Terminology Jenga, making review both engaging and memorable.

One highlight of the season was our annual Pumpkin Surgery Lab. Students completed their first case study by researching a condition and performing a “surgical procedure” on their pumpkin patients. The activity showcased impressive creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork while introducing students to clinical reasoning in a fun and approachable way.

We have framed up 2 rooms inside of our shop area. One has a roof and will have a finished exterior. The other will represent an interior room. Students are currently using what they have previously learned to install electrical & plumbing into the rooms we have framed. In addition to the rooms, we have spent time learning to use the formulas on a framing square to determine rafters lengths and stair stringers. Our next  units will be learning to hang & finish Sheetrock, install roofing, and install siding and soffit material. 

Careers In Business (CIB)

December 2025

During November, students learned how to construct and deliver a quality presentation. We spent a lot of time on this and the students completed several presentations. They each did a great job, and this is a skill we will continue to improve upon during the entire class. It also helps with interviewing. They have been spending a lot of time learning Microsoft Excel as well; a skill 90% of businesses use so it’s crucial. We went to the HCC College Career Fair where students were able to talk to dozens of colleges of their choice. Then, we had a Thanksgiving fun day where students brought food/drinks, we played games, and chatted with each other. 

In December, we kicked off money management with a one-day Snowflake Start-Up Company competition. (Snowflake Pics) Students had to make their product, determine the cost of goods, price, sales, and profit. We had a great time incorporating Christmas themed hands-on business activities with learning.  

Next, they began keeping track of their spending, which is an eye-opener for everyone! For example, their daily drink from Starbucks or Dunkin can cost as much as a vacation, depending how much they spend. It’s all about choices and goals. ☺ We will use the information we learn about spending, excel, and other money management techniques to participate in a Food Truck Challenge. 

Lastly, the CIB students rang bells for the Salvation Army twice in December at several Freeport/Lena locations. I’m proud of them because one of those days it was particularly cold outside! Our last day before break the students have voted to have White Elephant gift exchange and I cannot wait to see what they bring! 

Thank you to all of the parents for the amazing students I have the pleasure of seeing and teaching each day.  Please have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Careers In Business (CIB)

November 2025

In the first half of November, we focus on how to deliver presentations without reading directly from the PowerPoint slides. We specifically focus on preparation, rehearsal, eye contact, tone, and especially knowing your audience. We also work on dropping the “um”, “uh”, and “like” from their vocabulary which has perhaps been the most challenging part! I’m looking forward to seeing each of them improve over the next couple of weeks. 

During the last half of November, the class pivots to Excel, Personal Finance and Business Math. They will eventually tackle banking, checking, savings, credit, debt, and the importance of budgeting to live within your means. All of these are life skills to help them become financially independent.

CIB II students will continue to work at their internships and add to their portfolios. In particular, documenting the skills they are learning on the job, known as employability skills. Recognizing these skills is valuable because they can better explain all they’ve accomplished during college and/or job interviews. I am so proud of the exceptional feedback from mentors about the year two students. Great job everyone! Remember to be thankful for the time spent with family and friends during Thanksgiving break.

In the second half of November, Culinary Arts continued advancing their knowledge and skills. They learned about soup preparation, including cream soups, bisques, and chowders. In this unit, students completed the following lab activities: chili, french onion, chicken noodle, and potato corn chowder. In the first half of December, students learned how to prepare sauces and cook with herbs and spices. These units included lab activities such as homemade macaroni and cheese, teriyaki sauce, and Italian herb flatbread.

HOYA Class Monthly Update: November & December

As we wrap up the final months of the year, our HOYA students have been hard at work gaining essential healthcare skills, expanding their medical knowledge, and participating in meaningful community experiences.

November Highlights

In November, all students successfully completed CPR training—and we are proud to share that every student is now CPR certified! This achievement marks an important step in their healthcare education and equips them with vital lifesaving skills.

Students also explored urinary and bowel elimination, including the structure and function of the kidneys. Through this unit, they gained a deeper understanding of how the body filters waste, maintains fluid balance, and supports overall health.

December Updates

December has been an exciting and busy month for the HOYA class. Students officially started clinicals, allowing them to apply their skills in real healthcare settings while working directly with residents and staff. This hands-on experience is an essential part of their training and helps prepare them for future careers in the medical field.

We also began our new unit on dementia, focusing on both clinical understanding and compassionate care. Students participated in a dementia simulation to better understand the challenges individuals with dementia experience. This powerful activity encouraged empathy, patience, and awareness—qualities essential in quality caregiving.

As part of this unit, each student is creating an interactive activity they will lead with residents living with dementia. Later this month, students will travel to Liberty Village or Lena Living Center to share their activities and spend meaningful time with residents.

Student Comments

Our students have had a meaningful and eye-opening experience this semester. Here’s what they have to say:

• “I have learned more about illnesses and diseases I knew nothing about.” — Elena

• “I like exploring different careers when we do job shadows.” — Madey

• “I like that I have got to get actual experience in the medical field and not just learning from a book.” — Paytn

• “I like being able to learn about different careers.” — Gracie

• “I liked doing job shadows and learning more about the different jobs in the medical field.” — Caitlynn

• “I liked going to clinicals and experiencing all that’s gonna happen when I start working, and I think it’s just gonna be really fun.” — Kayleigh

• “One thing I like about HOYA is the job shadows. I enjoy exploring the various career opportunities in nursing. It gives me a great idea about what I want to do in my future.” — Tatumn

• “I have learned so much in HOYA, and it makes me very excited to start my career.” — Jaycie

• “My favorite thing about HOYA is being able to experience different jobs and see if I would be interested in the career.” — Tori

• “A few of my favorite things about HOYA are the job shadows and the skills we learn. The job shadows are such a fun and exciting experience, and it is cool to see how each job works. As for the skills, I am excited to carry the skills I learned from this class into my future career.” — Madi

• “My favorite thing about HOYA is being able to have all different types of opportunities that others don't get to experience. Another thing is you get to meet new people from other schools and get close with them!” — Arystin

• “My favorite thing about HOYA are the job shadows, because it allows me to explore the different careers and learn more about the health care department.” — Angie

Upcoming Event: Dementia Awareness Bake Sale

Mark your calendars!
Date: December 17th
Time: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: St. John’s in Freeport — CareerTEC Entrance

The HOYA class will be hosting a Bake Sale for Dementia Awareness. All proceeds will be donated to the dementia units/residents at Liberty Village or Lena Living Center. We hope you’ll stop by to support our students and this important cause.

October 9, 2025 Board Minutes

Agenda for Nov. 13, 2025