Rochester Schools, Frisbie partner to get students hands-on LNA training

About a dozen students are taking part in the program, which allows them to volunteer at the hospital to experience all facets of clinical operations. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Schools officials announced today that the Rochester School Department is once again partnering with Frisbie Memorial Hospital to provide additional, hands-on training opportunities to LNA students.

About 12 students are taking part in the program, which allows them to volunteer at the hospital to experience all facets of clinical operations, and to collaborate with health-care professionals. The students shadow these professionals during "Fridays at Frisbie," where they receive knowledge critical to the advancement of their nursing careers.

The school district and hospital have collaborated to provide this training for many years, but the program was placed on hold at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

To be licensed, an LNA needs at least 60 hours of theory and hands-on practical training, and pass a state licensure examination. Rochester students will receive at least 70 hours of training, both at Frisbie and at a long-term care facility.

Frisbie Hospital also has agreed to donate supplies and older equipment, allowing LNA students to practice their skills in their Health Science Technology classrooms at R. W. Creteau Technology Center.

"We are grateful to re-energize this important initiative with Frisbie Memorial Hospital, and thank them for their support and generosity," said Director of Career Technology Education Michele Halligan-Foley. "Nursing is a high-demand field in New Hampshire. Our students are receiving experience in a variety of settings and will start on the pathway to employment in their chosen field."