Okaloosa Technical College’s Practical Nursing Program is celebrating a 100% pass rate for its 2022-2023 graduating class on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), allowing 19 students to earn their licensed practical nurse certification (LPN).
- The rigorous 14-month program, approved by the Florida State Board of Nursing, requires students to undergo 675 hours of classroom instruction and 675 hours of hands-on clinical experience at local medical facilities.
- Most graduates were hired locally within the medical profession, while others continued their nursing education.
“The demand for nurses continues to be high. These students are entering a noble profession that will make a positive impact and improve the quality of life of the patients they serve,” said Marcus Chambers, Okaloosa County School District superintendent. “The 100% pass rate is a testament to the hard work of the students and OTC staff, as well as our community partnerships that give our students the real-life experience needed to enter the workforce immediately.”
Last year, HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital awarded a $15,000 scholarship to the college to support strengthening and expanding the state’s healthcare workforce. OTC also received over $1 million in performance funding, based on the program’s pass rate, to update and improve the nursing program and lab.
- “These adult students are answering the call for more trained healthcare professionals, and I am grateful for their contribution to the workforce,” said Jon Williams, OTC director. “Hands-on learning at OTC is what we are about, and our LPN program showcases that especially well. We couldn’t be prouder of these students and our faculty and staff who train them.”
Brenda Restey, Practical Nursing Program director at OTC, said, “I am very proud of the students who worked so hard and the staff who shared their love of nursing. I am also very grateful for the support we receive from our community partners who allow our students to train in their facilities. It is such a valuable part of their learning.”
Applications for new student enrollment are accepted twice a year, and registration is currently open through Dec. 3.
For more information about the Practical Nursing Program at OTC or to register, visit https://www.otcollege.net/practical-nursing/.
