The Health Science Technology department at Brownwood High School is in its second year of existence and has recently formed a local chapter of the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA).  An organizational meeting was held in October, and officers were elected.  According to the organization, “HOSA is a student organization whose mission is to promote career opportunities in health care and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.”

The newly formed chapter of HOSA will be celebrating HOSA Week November 7-13, with the national theme of, “The Hearts that Believe and the Hands that Achieve.”   The BHS chapter of HOSA already has 60 members.

The quick rise of the organization mirrors the rapid growth of the high school Health Science Technology department.  Mrs. Ann Tew was the first instructor in the program, which began last year.  There was so much student interest, that another instructor was needed, and Mrs. Annalyn Deen joined program.

Students who graduate under the Health Science career path may obtain a pharmacy technician certification.  Mrs. Tew reported that nine students graduated in 2010 as pharmacy techs, and four are currently working in pharmacies.

“The community has been very supportive of the pharmacy tech program,” said Mrs. Tew.  Six local pharmacies allow students to volunteer at their pharmacy two days a week.

New this year is the Medical Skills Class.  Juniors in the program work as volunteers at Brownwood Regional Medical Center two days a week.

Photos contributed.  Pictured above are Brownwood High School HOSA chapter officers.  Front row:  (left to right) Nat de la Torre – Secretary, Brandi Prado – Vice-President, Chantalle Arriaga – Historian, Caitlyn Cloy – President, Christian Galaviz – Co-Chairman Nominating Committee/Fundraising,  and Lupita Garcia – Treasurer.  Back Row:  (left to right) Alex Hernandez – Parliamentarian, Kellie Scott – Reporter, Annalyn Deen – Co-Advisor, and Ann Tew – Co-Advisor.  Not Pictured:  Destiny Rodriguez – Co-Chairman Nominating Committee/Fundraising.

Pictured below:  Medical Skills Class from Brownwood High School volunteers at Brownwood Regional Medical Center twice a week.