The Southeastern Pennsylvania Area Black Nurses Association, a local chapter of the National Black Nurses Association, has organized an after-school program called the Mini Nurse Academy for elementary school students in an effort to diversify nursing, writes Aubrey Whelan for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

The two-month course at General George Meade Elementary School in North Philadelphia provides an introduction to nursing, first aid, and health care designed for elementary school students.

“We break it down to language the kids understand,” said Venus Gwynn, a retired nurse in the local NBNA chapter. “There’s a lot of opportunities for students in junior high and high school, but we’re introducing this career to younger kids.”

Sixteen students chose to participate in this year’s program, currently in its second year. It is designed to introduce Black and brown students to the field of nursing.

“Nursing as a profession is very white and female,” said Monica Harmon, SEPABNA’s chapter president. “To see Black nurses leading and educating is powerful for the students.”

Among other things, students learn how to measure blood sugar, first aid techniques, like CPR, and how to slow bleeding by applying pressure to a wound.

Read more about the Mini Nurse Academy and how it introduces young students to the nursing profession at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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