The AHS HOSA club has stepped outside the high school halls in recent weeks to provide health screenings for Arlington’s elementary and middle school students. The project gives future healthcare workers at AHS a chance to gain hands-on experience while serving the community.

“HOSA is a very fun club, and it unites all of the students in the school who want to be in the medical field,” Samantha Smith said. “It helps us all connect to each other and have a fun time.”

The screenings included height and weight measurements, hearing and vision checks and basic vital sign assessments. HOSA students guided younger children through each station, explaining the process step-by-step to help them feel comfortable.

“For some of the elementary kids, it’s their first time doing all of this,” Emily Ikerd said. “We hope that since we are teenagers doing it, it’s less scary than having actual nurses or adults.”

In preparation, HOSA members spent time in and out of class learning the proper techniques. Students trained with Mrs. Scherffius and Mrs. Cummings for several weeks to ensure the screenings were organized, accurate and efficient.

“Honestly, it’s nice to be able to practice and get experience on real kids rather than just each other,” Grayson Currie said.

The experience gives HOSA members a clearer look at what a career in healthcare might be like while allowing them to make a difference now. It also helps build confidence—not only in their medical skills, but in communicating with patients, handling nervous children and applying classroom lessons in real-world situations.

By the end of the screening days, HOSA students walk away with more than just technical practice. They learn patience, professionalism and the responsibility that comes with caring for others.