Healthcare Externship Intern
Framingham, MA - USA
Job Summary
FRAMINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Healthcare Externship Intern
Framingham High School
Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center
Silk Veterinary Hospital
POSITION SUMMARY
The Healthcare Externship Participant engages in a structured observational learning experience under the supervision of healthcare professionals and site coordinators. This role is designed to provide students with immersive real-world exposure to diverse medical environments. Participants will develop foundational professional skills and a deep understanding of patient-centered care. This commitment aligns with Framingham Public Schools high expectations for achievement equal access to culturally responsive quality instruction academic proficiency for all students and a sense of belonging for all subgroups within our schools.
OUR MISSION
Framingham Public Schools (FPS) is committed to excellence for all students and to creating a workforce that reflects our communitys rich racial linguistic and cultural diversity. Guided by our mission to empower free-thinking responsible citizens we value inclusion equity and cultural responsiveness in all we do. FPS strives to provide a safe and welcoming environment where every student and staff member can thrive. We actively seek educators and staff who are committed to antiracism social justice and civic engagement. We strongly encourage applications from individuals with disabilities and from members of historically underrepresented groups.
Framingham Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a culturally responsive antiracist and inclusive community where all individuals are valued respected and supported to thrive.
ABOUT FRAMINGHAM
Framingham Massachusetts is a vibrant and diverse suburban community located 20 miles west of Boston serving as a major hub in the MetroWest area. It successfully blends urban convenience with the comfort of New England neighborhoods characterized by cultural diversity and a strong community spirit.
A key asset is the Framingham Public School system which is committed to equity inclusion and student success across itsnineelementary schools three middle schools and Framingham High School. The district is recognized for its dual language programs comprehensive special education services and dedication to serving a diverse student population preparing all learners for college and careers.
Framingham is also home to Framingham State University and offers abundant outdoor opportunities including Cushing Memorial Park and Callahan State Park. With its blend of educational resources accessibility and dynamic community life Framingham is a welcoming place to live and grow.
CERTIFICATES LICENSES REGISTRATIONS
- Not Applicable.
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Framingham Public Schools seeks candidates whose background teaching or service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity inclusion and belonging in all aspects of education.
Educational Requirement: Candidates must be current high school students.
Professional Interest: A demonstrated interest in nursing medicine dentistry pharmacy or veterinary science.
SKILLS AND ABILITY
To perform this job successfully an individual must satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge skills and abilities required:
- Communication & Presentation: Communicate clearly and concisely in both oral and written forms; effectively present information and respond to questions from staff parents and the general public.
Analytical Thinking: Observe clinical procedures and healthcare operations defining how these roles integrate to support patient outcomes.
Cultural Proficiency: Work with patients and staff of diverse backgrounds in an equitable and inclusive manner.
Confidentiality: Maintain strict adherence to confidentiality protocols including an understanding of FERPA and HIPAA-related standards in a professional setting.
Reflective Learning: Ability to engage in journaling group discussions and the completion of a final capstone project.
- Professionalism Attendance & Adaptability: Maintain regular and punctual attendance to ensure consistent department operations and district-wide support. React professionally and objectively to unpredictable situations such as behavioral issues or environmental changes while maintaining a proactive reflective and solution-focused approach.
- Organizational Management: Work independently prioritize tasks and manage several projects simultaneously while maintaining strong organizational skills to balance the demands of a multi-tasking position.
- Technology: Operate and acquire skills in computer software including Google Workspace and use instructional technology appropriately to facilitate learning.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if work is similar related or a logical assignment to the position.
- Participate in daily rotations to observe professionals in Nursing Medical Assisting Dental Pharmacy and Veterinary Medicine.
- Shadow front desk operations and patient intake to learn how healthcare teams coordinate care and manage sensitive patient information.
- Observe Community Health Workers to understand how social determinants of health are addressed and how patients are connected to community resources.
- Actively ask questions take initiative during observations and participate in all scheduled learning activities.
- Maintain accurate records of hours (5075 total) and complete all required reflective assignments.
Other reasonable duties as assigned by the Program Director.
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Mobility & Stamina: Must be able to move throughout various healthcare facilities and remain standing for extended periods during clinical shadowing or surgical observations.
- Environmental Exposure: Ability to work in environments with potential exposure to allergens (specifically animal dander in veterinary settings) medicinal odors and sterilized clinical equipment.
- Safety & PPE: Must be able to wear and tolerate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including masks gloves and protective eyewear as required by clinical safety protocols.
- Sensory Requirements: High level of visual and auditory acuity required to safely observe medical procedures and follow rapid verbal instructions in a fast-paced environment.
- Physical Strength: Ability to lift up to 20 lbs (e.g. medical supplies or administrative materials) and assist in minor positioning of equipment under supervision.
REPORTS TO
FHS Vice Principal(and/or designee)
- The performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with the FraminghamSchool Committee Contract.
FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT (FLSA) CLASSIFICATION
This position is classified as Non-Exempt (Hourly).
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
- Program Duration: This role is for the months of April-June.
- Attendance Requirement:Consistent attendance for the full 5075 hour duration is a prerequisite for successful completion of the externship.
- Schedule & Shift Assignments:Participants must be flexible and willing to rotate between the Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center and Silk Veterinary Hospital as assigned.
- Contractual Status: This position is covered under the Framingham School Committee Contract.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)
Framingham Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race color religion sex national origin age disability or addition to federal law requirements Framingham Public Schools complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the District has policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting hiring placement promotion termination layoff recall transfer leaves of absence compensation and training. Framingham Public Schools expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race color religion gender sexual orientation gender identity or expression national origin age genetic information disability ancestry marital status or veteran status.
The Framingham Public Schools prohibit sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. The notice of nondiscrimination is located at the Framingham Public Schools School Committee website.Framingham Public Schools Nondiscrimination Notice.
Revised 2025
Required Experience:
Intern