Waldorf, Md., April 24, 2025 — Students from North Point High School’s Academy of Health Professions and Biotechnology career and technical education (CTE) programs have earned the chance to represent Maryland at the 2025 HOSA International Leadership Conference in June in Nashville. These students, part of HOSA Maryland, excelled in the virtual state leadership conference in March after passing online qualifier tests in January, showcasing their skills in health and bioscience fields.
HOSA, a student-led organization, promotes leadership and career development for future health professionals in middle school, high school, and college. North Point’s qualifiers will compete against peers from across the globe, demonstrating expertise in areas like biotechnology, CPR/first aid, medical reading, and nursing assisting. Their achievements highlight the strength of Charles County Public Schools’ (CCPS) CTE programs, which prepare students for healthcare careers through hands-on training.
In biotechnology, juniors Ti’Laisha Cooper and Sydney Ivory secured top placements at the state level, earning their spots in Nashville. The biotechnology program introduces students to lab-based techniques used in medical and scientific research, fostering skills in genetic engineering and molecular biology. Juniors Heaven Linton and Alea Smothers qualified in CPR/first aid, demonstrating proficiency in emergency medical response. Junior Mabel Brantuo excelled in medical reading, while seniors Larissa Miller and Sydnee Smalls advanced in nursing assisting, a program that blends classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experience in healthcare settings.
Other North Point students who placed in the top five at the state competition include junior Emmanuel Pearson in biotechnology; juniors Renee Carr and Janae Ross in CPR/first aid; seniors Yvonne Edwards and Helen Huynh in health career display; senior Danna Calabag in medical spelling; and senior Kirestin Brown in nursing assisting. These students’ performances reflect the rigorous preparation provided by North Point’s CTE instructors, Jill Bodamer, Megan O’Rourke, and Heidi Ortolano.
North Point’s CTE programs, serving over 2,400 students, offer two health-focused pathways: certified nursing assistant and biotechnology. The nursing assistant pathway includes clinical rotations in hospitals and care facilities, equipping students with practical skills for patient care. The biotechnology program emphasizes laboratory techniques, preparing students for careers in research and diagnostics. “Our students’ success at the state level shows their dedication and the quality of our programs,” said Bodamer, who teaches nursing assisting.
The HOSA International Leadership Conference, held annually, draws thousands of students competing in over 50 health-related events. North Point’s qualifiers will join peers from 50 states and several countries, vying for awards and networking with healthcare professionals. CCPS has a strong HOSA track record, with North Point teams placing at the international level in 2023 and 2024. The district’s focus on CTE aligns with Maryland’s Blueprint for the Future, which emphasizes career readiness through technical education.
Community support for North Point’s HOSA team is evident, with local healthcare providers offering mentorship and training opportunities. The students’ journey to Nashville underscores their commitment to healthcare leadership, positioning them for future roles in a growing industry.
