Red River High School Seniors Commit to Lake Region State College and Altru as Nurse Apprentices

Grand Forks, N.D. - Red River High School seniors Kyra Allen and Brooklyn Johnson took an exciting step toward their futures on Thursday, May 22, as they signed letters of intent to join Lake Region State College’s (LRSC) Nursing Program and begin their careers as Nurse Apprentices with Altru Health System.

The signing ceremony, held at the Grand Forks Public Schools Career Impact Academy, was filled with excitement and encouragement as friends, family, and educators gathered to support and celebrate Allen and Johnson’s commitment to healthcare.

“I’ve always wanted to help people, and this program gives me a chance to do that while I’m still in school,” said Kyra Allen. “It feels good knowing I’m on a path where I can make a real difference.”

“Joining this program gives me a head start on my future,” added Brooklyn Johnson. “I’m excited to grow my skills and be part of a team that’s improving lives every day.”

Grand Forks Public Schools also praised the students' decision to join the rapidly growing program.  

“This partnership represents the power of hands-on learning and career-aligned education,” said Eric Ripley, Executive Director of Career & Technical Education, Grand Forks Public Schools. “Kyra and Brooklyn are trailblazers for what’s possible when schools, colleges, and healthcare systems work together.”

Altru’s Nurse Apprenticeship Program has seen significant growth since its inception. What began with just four apprentices has now nearly tripled in participation.

“Students want the ability to earn while they learn,” said Cassie Olson, Manager of Education at Altru. “We are excited to offer this opportunity to young people who are passionate about making a difference in our community.”

Lake Region State College offers practical nursing and associate degree (RN) programs at sites in Devils Lake, Jamestown, Mayville, and Grand Forks. Students benefit from a flexible “mobility option,” which combines online theory courses with face-to-face labs and clinicals.

“At Lake Region State College, we believe in building strong, skilled nurses from day one,” said Lloyd Halvorson, Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Lake Region State College. “Programs like this are essential in developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

LRSC is a proud member of the Dakota Nursing Program, a collaborative initiative among four North Dakota colleges — Bismarck State College, Dakota College at Bottineau, Lake Region State College, and Williston State College. This partnership allows students to benefit from shared faculty, interactive video-based instruction, and in-person lab experiences.

Students like Allen and Johnson will receive hands-on training in a variety of healthcare settings — from hospitals and acute care centers to long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and clinics — preparing them to serve with competence and compassion.