Farmerville, LA - Nine Union Parish High School seniors are getting a head start on careers in the medical field thanks to a partnership with ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉútv (LDCC), Ruston Campus. The first-ever Dual Enrollment Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) cohort at Union Parish High School completed the program this spring, gaining clinical experience and resume enhancements.
Throughout the semester, students were bussed to LDCC Ruston four days a week, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., where they trained under the instruction of Coleaner Owens. Despite differing academic calendars, the students sacrificed their spring break to stay on track, demonstrating their dedication to the profession and their futures.
Union Parish High School hosted a special pinning ceremony to celebrate their hard work on April 28, 2025. Two awards were presented to deserving students for their outstanding efforts. The Clinicals Award was presented to Lakesha Kilgore, recognizing the student with exceptional performance in hands-on care. The Most Improved Award, honoring the student with the most significant growth throughout the course, was presented to Inxnasia Rodriguez. Additionally, one graduate will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship, further supporting their continued educational journey.
Eight of the nine students passed a portion of the CNA exam on their first attempt, moving them one step closer to full certification. Their success is made possible through a grant secured by Union Parish School District Special Education Supervisor Dr. Rhonda Davis, which covered the cost of tuition and testing for all participants.
“This cohort is a shining example of what can happen when education and community come together,” said Ruston Campus Director Patience Talley. “These students aren’t just earning credentials—they’re laying the foundation for meaningful careers that serve our region.”
Several vital community partners supported the program. The Union Parish School Board and Union Parish High School were critical in coordinating transportation and student schedules. At the same time, Farmerville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center generously provided access to their facility for clinical hours, offering students real-world experience in patient care.
As Northeast Louisiana grows its healthcare workforce, initiatives like the LDCC Dual Enrollment CNA program help bridge the gap between high school and career readiness. For more information about dual enrollment opportunities at ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉútv, visit .
Congratulations to the CNA students: Aurayana Palmer, Liza Victoriano Hernandez, Inxnasia Rodriquez Gonzales, Itzel Rios, Jasmane Moore, Zykeria Hopkin, Sara Hamilton, Lakedra Kilgore, Taylor Mason.