To the editor:

I would like to take the opportunity to inform local citizens of the proposed closure of the Suffolk Public Schools’ Sentara Obici Hospital School of Practical Nursing.

The school has been in existence since 1959 and is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission. The program is co-sponsored by Suffolk Public Schools and Sentara Obici Hospital.

The proposed SPS budget withdraws all funding for the program, which is located at the Pruden Center for Industry and Technology on Pruden Boulevard in Suffolk.

Graduates of the program are eligible to sit the NCLEX-PN exam after completion of the one-year adult program and enjoy a 98.86-percent pass rate.

This program has changed many lives, and the graduates provide high-quality care to the citizens of Suffolk and surrounding areas.

Those individuals interested in saving this excellent program should contact their local school board officials, state representatives and school administration. A public meeting is planned at 7 p.m. March 8 in council chambers for anyone wishing to present comments to the School Board.

 

Hilary H. Gersbach, M.S. R.N.