Jacksonville graduates to include certified phlebotomists

JACKSONVILLE – Twenty-two members of this year's graduating class at Jacksonville High School will become certified phlebotomy technicians through the schools Health Science Program.

The group includes: Fernanda Arredondo, Baleria Balderas, Lexi Counahan, Shelby Cumbie, Jennifer Garcia, Kimberly Garcia Ortega, Cynthia Hernandez, Katelynn Hogg, Kendra Jackson, Alexis Medellin, Shaunise Mitchell, Darehy Modesto, Emanuel Muniz, Angelli Romero, Kevin Sanchez, Oscar Servin, Emiley Tapia, Dylan Thrasher, Tralee Valentine, Guadalupe Villegas, Brittany Westbrook and Manuel Zavala.

According to Health Science Technology instructor Erin Reynolds, along with completing studies, students had to successfully complete 30 venous blood draws and 10 capillary punctures.
"We had 30 attempt this certification exam – which means we successfully completed 900-plus venous punctures and 300-plus capillary sticks in 2 months," Reynolds said.

Certification took place in March, she added.

"These students have floored us with their focus and drive to make this happen – I could go on and on about these kids and how proud I am," she said.

Jacksonville's graduation is slated May 21 at the Tomato Bowl.