Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School is expected to launch a new Medical Assisting career pathway thanks to a $15,000 grant from a statewide STEM initiative.
The funding is part of a $5.4 million investment by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education to expand science, technology, engineering and math opportunities across the state. Dighton-Rehoboth’s grant was secured by district grantwriter Renee Moorby, according to a community announcement from the Dighton-Rehoboth Regional School District.
The new pathway is designed to align with the state’s Innovation Career Pathways criteria and prepare students for careers in the growing healthcare sector. Superintendent Bill Runey said the grant supports the district’s broader mission to “Empower, Ignite, and Shape the Future.”
“Receiving this grant is another important accomplishment in the renaissance taking place in our district,” Bill Runey, superintendent, said. “It empowers Dighton-Rehoboth to expand our healthcare and STEM offerings, ignite student engagement, and ensure that every learner—regardless of background—has the opportunity to explore meaningful, in-demand careers.”
Hands-on learning and industry partnerships planned
The district plans to use the grant to explore several initiatives, including:
- Developing and equipping a Medical Assisting lab and classroom
- Creating hands-on learning experiences that connect biomedical science with healthcare careers
- Strengthening partnerships with local healthcare providers, colleges and workforce organizations
Principal Dustin Demers and CTE Director Michael Strojny are expected to lead collaboration efforts with local employers, following a model used in other successful programs like Automotive Technology, Engineering and Marketing.
Once established, the pathway will include at least two high school-level courses and two college-level courses, offering students early college exposure and credit attainment. It will also be aligned with MassCore, the state’s recommended program of study.
Support for students from all backgrounds
The district is partnering with the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority (MEFA) to provide professional development focused on college and career advising. The initiative will also integrate MyCAP (My Career and Academic Plan), a personalized planning tool for students.
Recognizing that equitable access is essential, the district plans to use the grant to expand academic and non-academic supports, including:
- Tutoring, mentoring and wraparound services
- Stipends for teacher leaders guiding capstone projects and internships
- Implementation of MyCAP for personalized college and career planning.
This story was created by Dave DeMille, ddemille@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.