Representatives from Bloomberg Philanthropies and Ballad Health visited Bristol Tennessee City Schools on September 29 to see firsthand how the district is preparing students for careers in health care through the Ballad Health Academy.
BTCS is the only school district in the region offering students the opportunity to earn high school health science credit while still in middle school. The district also leads the region in Ballad Health Academy enrollment, underscoring a strong commitment to innovative career pathways.
Building Pathways from Middle to High School
At Tennessee Middle School, health science teacher Brittney Faust shared how her students are already getting a head start. Eighth graders in her classes can earn high school credit before entering Tennessee High School—a unique opportunity that mirrors the dual-enrollment model often seen at the college level.
“Our middle schoolers are exploring pathways early,” Faust said. “That early start is helping them make informed decisions about where they want to go.”
Dr. Jeff Moorhouse, corporate director of secondary programs for Ballad Health, described this approach as a best practice that could be shared with other districts across the country.
Student Success in Action
At Tennessee High School, senior Lucy Millwood is a shining example of the program’s impact. Millwood will have earned her CNA certification upon high school graduation. She then plans to attend a four-year university and eventually pursue a career as a nurse practitioner.
“I was nervous about learning certain skills at first, but what I love most is assisting patients and creating a safe environment for them,” Millwood said.
Students receive support not only from classroom teachers but also from Ballad Health professionals. Nurse Allie Phelps visits Tennessee High regularly to coach students through clinical skills check-offs. In addition, Ballad pathway advisors guide students at each stage of high school: Doug Mitchell supports freshmen and sophomores, while Caroline Baird works with juniors and seniors to ensure they are meeting requirements, connecting with shadowing opportunities, and preparing for postsecondary success.
A Spirit of Innovation
Kate Herman, a program manager from Bloomberg Philanthropies, praised the BTCS–Ballad Health partnership, noting, “It’s so exciting to have people in a school system and in health care who say yes to innovation.”
Launched in 2025, the Ballad Health Academy gives students real-world experiences and career coaching while connecting them with clear pathways into health professions—an area of high need in the region.
Looking Ahead
BTCS students will continue to benefit from the combined support of their teachers, Ballad Health professionals, and pathway advisors. As more students participate, district leaders and program partners will also study long-term outcomes, from graduation rates to postsecondary enrollment.
The Ballad Health Academy is more than a partnership—it is an investment in the future of both students and the region’s health care workforce.