Innovative CPS Partnership Gives High School Students Real-World Experience, Benefits Preschoolers

Cincinnati Public Schools is finding innovative ways to better serve its youngest learners, while preparing high school students for future careers.

Through a new collaboration between Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Career and Technical Education (CTE) health pathway programs, CPS is expanding its ability to provide essential preschool screenings while giving high school students meaningful, hands-on clinical experience.

With the District hiring its own nurses over the summer, ECE leaders began exploring how to better support screenings while maximizing internal resources. A CPS billboard showcasing The Three E’s – enrolled, enlisted and employed, which connect students with opportunities after graduation – sparked a new idea to connect the work directly to CPS students pursuing careers in healthcare.

What started as a moment of inspiration for Early Childhood Health and Nutrition Specialist Renay Huff, quickly turned into action. After connecting with District leaders and CTE partners, the vision became a reality through collaboration with Woodward Career Technical High School’s health pathway program.

This school year, Woodward students have actively supported preschool screenings, gaining valuable clinical hours and real-world experience along the way.

Under the supervision of an ECE nurse, students administer screenings twice a week. Schedules are coordinated in advance to ensure students reach preschool sites where screenings are still needed or follow-up is required.

This hands-on experience allows students to build clinical skills in a real healthcare setting, gain exposure to pediatric care, strengthen confidence and professionalism and explore future career pathways in health sciences.

The collaboration is making a difference across CPS. Younger students receive timely, high-quality screenings that support early learning and development. Meanwhile, high school students are gaining the tools and experience they need for college and career success.

The innovative partnership will continue into the 2026-27 school year. It’s a model that reflects CPS’ commitment to supporting the whole child, from preschool through graduation.