Memorial Hermann Health System and Aldine ISD have just announced an exciting partnership that's set to make a significant impact on the students of Aldine ISD.

Imagine a new and innovative career-technical education high school, specifically designed to empower students for thriving careers in healthcare. That's exactly what the Health Education and Learning High School (HEAL High School) aims to achieve. This partnership is a game-changer for the students in the Houston area, providing them with a unique opportunity to blend healthcare career education seamlessly with a comprehensive high school experience.

Scheduled to open its doors in the fall of 2024, HEAL High School will share a campus with Nimitz High School, creating an environment where students can dive into healthcare knowledge, job training, and a high-quality education. This isn't just a school; it's a pathway for students to graduate directly into in-demand healthcare jobs with family-sustaining wages.

Thanks to a pioneering $250 million initiative led by Bloomberg Philanthropies, this collaboration connects education and healthcare systems to establish new CTE high schools across the country. And Aldine ISD is at the forefront of this transformative movement.

The curriculum at HEAL High School is something to be excited about. With an initial $31 million investment from Bloomberg Philanthropies to Memorial Hermann Foundation, students can expect a well-rounded education that includes robust academic programming, specialized healthcare classes, work-based learning, and the chance to earn industry-valued credentials. The goal is not just to provide a diploma but to offer students direct work experience and access to fulfilling jobs within Memorial Hermann immediately after graduation.

In a state where shortages in healthcare professionals are a pressing issue, this partnership couldn't come at a better time. Texas is in need of nurses, physicians, technicians, therapists, and pharmacists, and HEAL High School is stepping up to address these shortages. Students will not only receive an education that prepares them for the future but also gain hands-on experience in simulation labs, job-shadowing, and even paid healthcare internships.

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, Superintendent of Schools for Aldine ISD, sees this as an opportunity for students to engage in relevant educational experiences while serving their community's needs. It's not just about learning; it's about a holistic high school experience that integrates career-technical education in a profound way.