Late July brings Kansas high school health science teachers to KU Medical Center for the annual Summer Teacher Externship. Aligned with the Kansas Department of Education Health Science Pathways, this provides professional development hours to teachers through three days of immersion in various departments at KU Medical Center in Kansas City.

Only 16 teachers from across Kansas are accepted, with reserved spots being on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Attendees are advised to wear comfortable shoes as the three days are full of tours, interactive environments and visits to various departments across campus. 

In the past, participants have been able to take part in activities in labs conducting clinical and translational research; meet with recruiters from the schools of Medicine, Nursing, Health Professions and Pharmacy; and tour many areas of The University of Kansas Hospital. Judging by the feedback, the teachers have found this to be a valuable experience. 

• “I have not stopped talking about what I have experienced. Thank you!” 
• “I was amazed by the exposure we had to the medical field.” 
• “I most appreciated the different departments visits where we got to see and do things.” 
• “Each day was packed!” 
• “Enjoyed every minute.” 

This year includes visits to the Zamierowski Institute for Experiential Learning Simulation Lab, Clendening History of Medicine Library, the lab of Dr. Katherine Roby for a genetic sequencing experiment, a cardiac services tour and a neuro pathology autopsy. 

The Summer Teacher Externship seeks to bridge the gap between rural Kansas students and a future in health care by preparing their teachers to show them the way.