Butler County, KY – September 30, 2025 – At Butler County Schools, preparing students for the future means more than textbooks and lectures — it means providing real-world opportunities that challenge them to think critically, act responsibly, and solve problems with creativity and compassion. This week, students from Butler County Area Technology Center (ATC) demonstrated what it truly means to be a Portrait of a Learner through a transformative learning experience at Northern Kentucky University (NKU).

Led by instructor Jessi McKee, ATC’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter traveled to NKU to participate in the university’s Cadaver Experience, an advanced, hands-on anatomy lab designed to give aspiring healthcare professionals deeper insights into the human body. For Butler County students, it was more than a field trip — it was an opportunity to explore, question, and problem-solve in an authentic medical setting.

McKee expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity, noting both the academic and personal growth her students displayed throughout the experience. “We are very appreciative to NKU and BCS for allowing us the opportunity to explore human anatomy in such a hands-on and respectful environment. Our students gained invaluable insight into the complexity of the human body and the importance of ethical medical practice. Experiences like this help shape the future of healthcare by inspiring curiosity, compassion, and professionalism”.

Portrait of a Learner in Action: Problem Solving

This story embodies Butler County Schools’ Portrait of a Learner pillar of Problem Solving. Students were challenged to think critically as they encountered real-world anatomy, asked complex questions, and worked together to make sense of the human body’s systems. In doing so, they demonstrated the durable skills necessary for success in healthcare — curiosity, persistence, ethical reasoning, and the ability to apply classroom knowledge in meaningful ways.

Problem solving in healthcare is never abstract; it requires careful observation, sound judgment, and respect for both science and humanity. By navigating this unique educational opportunity, Butler County ATC students gained not only technical understanding but also the confidence to face future challenges in medical fields with resilience and determination.

Bridging the Classroom and Career Pathways

The cadaver lab experience reflects Butler County Schools’ commitment to bridging academic learning with career pathways. By collaborating with NKU, the district ensures that students preparing for careers in healthcare have access to experiences that push them beyond traditional instruction and prepare them for the ethical and professional demands of their future roles.

Hands-on learning is a cornerstone of Butler County ATC programs. Opportunities like the Cadaver Experience empower students to develop critical thinking skills that will serve them not only in college and career settings but also as lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

A Community of Support

This accomplishment was made possible through strong partnerships. Butler County Schools, NKU, and community support systems worked together to create this experience for students. These collaborations embody the district’s vision: education as a community-driven effort, where students are supported by both their schools and the broader network of higher education and professional organizations.

Looking Ahead

For Butler County ATC students, this experience is just the beginning. Many will go on to pursue careers in nursing, medicine, and allied health professions, carrying with them the lessons learned in NKU’s cadaver lab. They will remember not just the scientific complexity of the human body, but also the importance of professionalism, ethics, and compassion.

As Butler County Schools continues to emphasize its Portrait of a Learner framework, stories like this highlight how education can inspire students to grow into problem solvers who are ready to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world.

One team with one vision that makes us Butler Strong.