The Arkansas Health Care Association cut the ribbon last week in Little Rock on the first of its three planned nursing schools. 

“This is the beginning of a new chapter, one that will shape the future of nursing education, improve access to quality care and strengthen the healthcare system across our state for elderly Arkansans,” Arkansas Health Care Association President Rachel Bunch said.

Through the schools, certified nursing assistants within member facilities can take courses to advance to a medication assistant-certified (MA-C) role. MA-Cs are eligible for further training to become licensed practical nurses if they wish.

“Over the last several years, the number of LPNs produced by traditional programs has actually declined in the state,” Bunch said. 

The MA-C training program, which is approved by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing, teaches students to perform the delegated function of medication administration and related tasks under the supervision of a licensed nurse in skilled nursing facilities.

The school’s programs are entirely employer-sponsored, she said, adding that students already are working in member SNFs. They must be nominated by building leaders to enroll in the program.

“Traditionaly, it’s been hard for those CNAs to go back to school. …This will give them an opportunity to further their career while working at the same time,” Bunch said.

Students will work part-time and go to school part-time during the 10-month program, she said.

According to Talk Business, the average pay for a CNA in Arkansas is approximately $17.13 per hour. An MA-C makes $20.07 per hour, on average, and an LPN earns $29.60 per hour.

“This school is more than a program. It’s a promise,” state Rep. Brian Evans (R) said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, as reported by AR Money and Politics. “It’s a promise to our seniors, a promise to our families and a promise to the next generation.”

Classes will start this summer, with two other schools opening later in Jonesboro and Rogers.