Bishop Luers High School Launches Career Readiness Program in Partnership with University of Saint Francis
Fort Wayne, IN – April 24, 2025 – Bishop Luers High School, in partnership with the University of Saint Francis and Leffler Academy, announces the launch of its Career Readiness Program, geared to provide Bishop Luers students with valuable exposure to college and career preparation – giving them a head start upon graduation.
This partnership will provide junior and senior students with the opportunity to take entry-level college courses in the health sciences and education fields, with the option to earn dual credit, acquire 75 clinical hours, and receive a certification. Beginning in Fall 2025, pathways will include Education and CNA programs, with exposure to Phlebotomy, Electrocardiography, EMT, LPN, and Medical Billing. All courses will be taught on the campus of the University of Saint Francis.
Ken Harkenrider, Director of Career Readiness, said, “I love the idea that this program is outside the normal confines of the school, that students are getting introduced to what lies beyond graduation.”
As new graduation requirements change the nature of the Indiana diploma, Bishop Luers is investing in career readiness with the expansion of its Career Technical Education (CTE) Program. This program is designed to prepare students to pursue and succeed in their post-secondary education and careers by providing real-world experience in real-time as part of the BLHS curriculum. CTE will benefit students interested in exploring potential career paths, gaining relevant knowledge, or developing specific skills required to enter a particular career field upon graduation.
Dr. Angela Harrell, Vice President for Healthcare Relations and Dean of the College of Health Sciences at the University of Saint Francis, said, “I’m excited about the opportunity that the partnership with both Leffler Academy and Bishop Luers offers to be able to introduce high school students to health careers. They (students) will utilize a variety of our laboratory spaces. They will be in our nursing skills lab, simulation lab and immersive learning suite. We will have a dedicated classroom for them.”
Dr. Amanda Leffler, DNP, RN, and founder of Leffler Academy, said, “I’m excited about the career pathway exposure and opportunities for the students.”
Bishop Luers Interim Principal Seth Coffing said, “We’re ecstatic and proud to announce our new partnership with the University of Saint Francis. This partnership will allow Bishop Luers students opportunities to explore, gain knowledge and earn college credits in the areas of Education and Healthcare. Bishop Luers has been approved to be a provider through the Indiana Department of Education with the Career Scholarship Account, allowing these students to experience this program at no direct cost to the families. We are thrilled to partner with USF and give our students this exciting opportunity."
To learn more about the Career Technical Education Program, click here: https://www.bishopluers.org/page/career-technical-education-program.
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About Bishop Luers High School
Bishop Luers High School is a Catholic secondary education committed to providing an education rooted in faith, service, and academic excellence while fostering an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. The school strives to develop well-rounded individuals who are prepared to lead and serve in their communities with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to the values of Christ. To learn more, visit our website at www.BishopLuers.org.