Roanoke Rapids Graded School District Superintendent Julie Thompson praised an announcement by ECU Health Wednesday that its Health Sciences Academy will expand to four additional locations including the city’s system for the upcoming school year.
"Expanding the Health Sciences Academy to our district is an incredible opportunity for our students and our community,” she said today. “This program not only opens doors for students to explore rewarding healthcare careers, but also helps strengthen the local workforce, ensuring our region is better equipped to meet the health care needs of the future. I am thankful to ECU Health for this valuable experience for our students."
ECU Health said Wednesday the expansion will also extend the program’s impact to Beaufort County Schools, Edenton-Chowan County Schools and Hertford County Schools.
The program currently operates in partnership with Pitt County Schools and Duplin County Schools.
For over two decades, the HSA has provided high school students with a structured pathway into health care careers, offering specialized coursework, hands-on experiences and professional mentorship.
With a growing demand for health care professionals, particularly in rural communities, ECU Health’s expansion of the HSA model aims to equip more students with the skills and experiences needed to succeed in the workforce.
Since its inception in 2000, the Health Sciences Academy has enrolled approximately 1,000 students annually, providing exposure to a wide range of health care careers beyond just doctors and nurses.
Students complete a minimum of six health sciences courses and gain real-world experience through job shadowing, internships, career exploration and volunteer opportunities at ECU Health and other partner organizations.
The program also focuses on developing essential skills such as leadership, critical thinking, accountability and communication. Students receive training in professional etiquette, resume building and college entrance exam preparation, making them well-prepared for their next steps.
For parents and students interested in more information about the Health Sciences Academy, contact: Ginger Duncan at
