Grand Island Senior Shines in Health Careers Program

Grand Island Central School District senior Celine Rizek is thriving as she builds her skills and confidence while studying in the Health Careers program at the Kenton Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center.

“This program has solidified my love for helping and taking care of others,” Celine said. “I love clinical and working with real patients. This program has given me opportunities to use my skills and grow as both a person and a healthcare worker.”

Instructor Margaret Holler praised Celine for her progress and classroom leadership.

“Celine started as a quiet student, but through her clinical experience, she has grown into one of the most exceptional students,” Holler said. “She is amazing with the residents at our clinical site. She is kind, caring, compassionate, and full of personality. She helps other students connect with residents as well and is a leader now both in and out of the classroom.”

After learning about the program’s offerings from a friend of her sister, Celine enrolled with a clear goal of becoming a nurse. The program teaches students a wide range of skills to become a supportive caregiver through clinical experiences in a variety of health care environments, including long term care facilities and hospitals.

“I plan to attend a four-year school, possibly Daemen University, to become a pediatric nurse and work at Oishei Children’s Hospital,” Celine said.