REGIONAL- The Minnesota Next Generation Nursing Assistant initiative, a program which provides free training, books, uniforms, and exams for aspiring Certified Nurse Assistants, will continue to be available through February 2023 thanks to an additional $2.4 million allocation from THE state’s COVID-19 Management Appropriation fund.
Colleges in the Minnesota State system and some private training providers are offering CNA coursework on-site and through hybrid and online options. Hybrid options are primarily delivered online with a minimum number of on-campus attendance required.
As of Tuesday, 11 of the 19 classes listed on the Minnesota State website were full, had waiting lists, or required approval for enrollment. No on-campus training is currently being provided in the North Country region. Potential students are encouraged to frequently search the Minnesota State website for “Next Generation” to view available classes, as new courses are being added.
To be eligible for the free Next Generation program, students must be at least 16 years of age and able to work in the U.S. Some institutions may have their own enrollment requirements and may require background checks. All employers, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and veterans homes will require background checks and up-to-date vaccinations, including COVID-19 vaccinations.
In addition to the coursework, students must successfully complete a skills test and a knowledge test to be certified.
For additional information about the Next Generation Nursing Assistant initiative, including links to training and testing opportunities, visit www.ohe.state.mn.us/CNATraining/.