During the recent Rock County Board meeting held on June 26, 2025, discussions centered on enhancing workforce development in the healthcare sector, particularly through partnerships with local nursing schools. Supervisor Tillman raised a crucial point about the potential for nursing homes to serve as clinical sites for nursing programs, a move that could help attract more employees to the field.

Rock County has already established partnerships with Blackhawk Technical College and other institutions, allowing them to serve as clinical sites for Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs and social work internships. This initiative aims to provide students with hands-on experience while also addressing the staffing shortages faced by nursing homes in the area.

The board discussed the return on investment from these clinical partnerships, particularly regarding the CNA program. The county has been funding students' education, including covering costs for books and testing, with the promise of guaranteed employment upon graduation. This strategy not only supports students but also helps to fill critical positions within Rockhaven, the county's nursing facility.

Supervisor Schultz suggested that residents should have the opportunity to submit questions following the meeting, ensuring transparency and continued community engagement. The board agreed to set a deadline for questions by July 7, 2025, to facilitate timely responses.

Overall, the meeting highlighted Rock County's commitment to addressing workforce challenges in healthcare through educational partnerships, which could significantly benefit both students and the community by ensuring a steady supply of qualified healthcare professionals.