K-M students learn about health care careers through Immersive Experiences Program

(ABC 6 News) – 4th Graders at Kasson-Mantorville Elementary School had a chance to see what it would be like to work in the medical field on Tuesday.

They got to feel the weight of an x-ray apron, use a stethoscope, and even touch a pig heart.

This is through Kasson-Mantorville’s Immersive Experiences Program.

It gives students exposure to professionals in different careers.

Students filled out their health passports while learning from doctors, nurses, therapists, and more.

"We have this little tool that you put some gel on and then you just scan it kind of so it makes so it is like slippery so it can go easy we saw some broccoli I think some applesauce," KM Elementary School 4th Graders, Charlotte and Stella said when sharing what they learned about ultrasounds.

The school said this is a critical time to teach students about healthcare jobs as nearly 1 in 5 healthcare workers left their positions in the past two years.

"They see opportunities beyond what they otherwise might experience or know about. Especially with the health sciences, it is so fun to see them get excited about science opportunities and have an idea of what direction they want to go in Middle and High School," Project Lead the Way Teacher, Jessica Marquardt said.

In past immersive sessions, students have explored careers in engineering and art.

This was the third session with over 150 4th graders participating.