JFK goes the distance to learn

Staff report

Warren

The John F. Kennedy Catholic School MedPREP Program partnered with the Center of Science and Industry to view a live knee- replacement surgery.

Using Kennedy’s Cisco Systems Distance Learning Technology located in the Shoaf Conference Room, students were able to observe a surgeon and operating room personnel in real time.

The surgery took place at Mount Carmel East in Columbus and was simultaneously broadcast nationwide.

During the broadcast, students were given the opportunity to ask questions of the surgical team.

The experience was eye opening for the Kennedy MedPREP students, a program that features a four-year specialized curricular track focused on preparing students for collegiate studies in the medical field.

The program combines advanced coursework, enrichment opportunities and practical experiences while integrating a distinctive Catholic approach to addressing philosophical and ethical issues within the field of study.

“Watching a live knee-replacement was a one-of-a-kind experience,” said senior Brock DeAngelo. “This was a unique educational adventure. Being able to talk and interact with the surgeon was really amazing because I felt like I was standing in the room during the operation.”

Staci Raab, principal and MedPREP moderator, believes it was a good experience for students.

“Our students were exposed not only to the responsibilities of the surgeon, but also those of the physicians assistants, anesthesiologist, nurses, techs and even the sales representative of the devices used in the knee,” she said. “There are few experiences a high school student can have that can give them this level of insight into the field of medicine.”