Prisma Health donates ambulance to C.A. Johnson High School; Health Sciences Magnet Program introduces EMT pathway

March 28, 2024

Richland One’s health sciences magnet program at C.A. Johnson High School now has a new tool to help students become emergency medical technicians (EMTs).

Students in the health sciences magnet program at C.A. Johnson High School explore the decommissioned ambulance donated by Prisma Health.

Prisma Health donated a decommissioned ambulance to support the health sciences magnet program and help kickstart its EMT career pathway. The presentation was made during a news conference March 26.

“With the addition of the EMT pathway, students have the opportunity to become work ready and career ready. That’s what we want for our students – to be able to leave C.A. Johnson more prepared to enter the workforce,” said Sheron Capers, health sciences magnet coordinator at C.A. Johnson.

The ambulance is a 2016 Ford F450 Type 1 that was used specifically for Prisma Health’s Oconee 911 division. It boasts a meticulously designed patient compartment, spacious enough to accommodate multiple EMS clinicians.

Anthony Jackson, president of Prisma Health Baptist Hospital and vice president of external affairs, says the donation underscores Prisma Health’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

“By providing this ambulance to Richland School District One for the training of healthcare students, we are investing in future healthcare providers. Practical, hands-on experience is invaluable in healthcare education, and we are proud to support this
initiative that will help cultivate skilled and compassionate healthcare workers who will undoubtedly make a difference in our communitie” said Jackson.

Prisma Health (formerly Palmetto Health) has partnered with Richland One on several school and district-wide programs and initiatives since the 1990s.

“The power of partnerships cannot be overstated. Having this ambulance is an example of our partnership with Prisma Health. We will continue this partnership and provide these opportunities for our young people at C.A. Johnson and across this district,” said Richland One Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon.

The EMT pathway will be available at C.A. Johnson starting in the 2024-2025 school year. Click here to learn more about the health sciences magnet program.

Richland One is accepting applications for students to enroll in magnet choice programs with spots still available for the 2024-2025 school year. Health sciences and other magnet programs are open to all Richland One students. The application deadline is
April 30. For information about all of the district’s magnet programs and to apply, click here.