HOSA begins Teddy Bear Clinics across the district

Our GRC Health Occupations Students of America members turned the Conkwright Elementary gym into a medical center for this year’s first Teddy Bear Clinic.

Through fun, hands-on activities, our future healthcare leaders taught young students about basic health practices, doctor visits, and the importance of caring for their bodies — all while helping “treat” their stuffed animal patients.

This interactive experience helps ease medical fears, encourage healthy habits, and spark curiosity about healthcare careers.

Led by Area Tech instructors Tara Cruse and Nancy O’Hair, the HOSA team will bring their Teddy Bear Clinic to all elementaries and the Clark County Preschool throughout this school year.

"This tradition has been going in Clark County for many years and we love continuing it," said Ms. Cruse. "It helps our HOSA students practice their skills while helping students learn that going to the doctor doesn’t have to be scary. It's a great way to give back to the community and make new friends in our schools."

Students bring their stuffed friends to school and they go through registration, lab tests, X-rays, emergency room, surgery, and a treatment plan.

This is just one great activity our HOSA members participate in each year. The 2025 HOSA officers are Ellie Hunter, President; Addison Bailey, Vice President; Wyatt Pasley, Community Service; Teigh Yeast, Secretary; Maahi Patel, Reporter; Brielle Wiggington, Historian; and Jayde Cantrell, Treasurer.

The schedule kicked off at Conkwright with clinics scheduled in the other schools throughout the school year.

Thank you to our HOSA members for spreading smiles, comfort, and inspiration to the next generation.

Pictures from video may be downloaded below.