Susan Barr
Kern Valley Sun

With decreased funding looming, Tom Cormack, lead teacher for the KVHS Exploring Careers in Health Occupations (ECHO) Academy, sought help from the logical source; the local healthcare district.

Cormack submitted a request for a Grant for Healthcare Education to the Kern Valley Hospital Foundation. In it he stressed the unique relationship that has evolved between the local healthcare community and the ECHO program. The Foundation took his cause to heart and raised an extremely impressive $12,000 to put back into the ECHO coffers.

Joan Amos, president of the Kern Valley Hospital Foundation, fourth from left, presents a check in the amount of $12,000 to KVHS Principal Dr. Jeanie Brachear, third from left, as the ECHO program Board of Advisors and faculty look on.

“In a time when we are facing an extreme budget crisis, we feel very fortunate to have such wonderful support from the Foundation and the many other community organizations and service groups, as well as individuals.” Amongst other things, the donation allowed the program’s Career Technician, Vickie Stacy to remain in her position without her hours being cut as was originally proposed.

Dr. Jeanie Brachear, principal of Kern Valley High School echoed Cormack’s comments stating, “We are so grateful to the Foundation and to all of the other community organizations, groups and individuals that so generously contributed. The support they have given to this program is amazing.”

Joan Amos, president of the Kern Valley Hospital Foundation stated, “ We were truly grateful for the widespread support we have received not only from our own Foundation members, but also from other organizations and individuals that allowed us to make such a substantial donation to this program.” She continued, “This program is not only incredibly vital for the young people of our valley, but also for the hospital. Many graduates of the ECHO program go on to become valued employees of the District. They are invaluable resource to us.”

To learn more about the ECHO program visit www.kernvalley.kernhigh.org.