River Valley School District and Indiana Regional Medical Center Announce Partnership to Advance Student Opportunities in Sports Medicine and Health Professions

This collaboration represents a major step forward in the district’s commitment to providing hands-on, career-focused learning experiences for students pursuing futures in healthcare, sports medicine, and rehabilitative sciences. Through the sponsorship, IRMC will provide ongoing professional support, mentorship, and real-world clinical insights to enhance the educational experience of students enrolled in the SMaRT program. Funding from the partnership through the River Valley Education Foundation will provide advanced technology and equipment to enhance instructional outcomes.

As part of this new agreement, River Valley and IRMC have also formed a cooperative partnership that extends beyond the classroom. The partnership includes both the SMaRT Program and the Pathways to Health Professions Program, offering eligible River Valley seniors the opportunity to work part-time at IRMC while earning school credit. Students who have completed the necessary coursework and career-readiness credentials will gain valuable on-site experience in various healthcare settings, bridging the gap between education and employment.

“This partnership exemplifies what it means to prepare our students for meaningful careers,” said Geoff Dixon, President of the River Valley Education Foundation. “By aligning with a respected community healthcare leader like IRMC, we are ensuring our students have direct access to professional mentors, industry tools, and the experience needed to succeed in today’s competitive workforce.”

“This collaboration allows us to invest in the next generation of healthcare professionals right here in our community,” said Dr. Patrick Shannon, IRMC Physician Group Chief Medical Officer. “By partnering with River Valley, we’re helping students gain hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare environment—while also inspiring them to consider rewarding careers in medicine, rehabilitation, and patient care.”

The agreement strengthens the district’s STEAM Academy vision by connecting academic excellence with authentic, work-based learning experiences. Students enrolled in these programs will explore disciplines such as athletic training, physical therapy, nursing, diagnostic imaging, and healthcare administration—while building relationships with IRMC professionals who can serve as mentors and career advisors.

About River Valley School District
The River Valley School District, located in Blairsville, Pennsylvania, is committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that prepare all students for lifelong success. Through initiatives such as the STEAM Academy and the RIASEC Model, River Valley empowers students to explore, create, and connect their learning to real-world experiences.

About Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC)
 Indiana Regional Medical Center, 194-bed not-for profit community hospital, has been serving Indiana County and surrounding communities since 1914. As a nationally recognized employer, IRMC continues to meet the needs of patients and employees alike. IRMC maintains its commitment to serving the region by continually re-investing in its facilities, technology and people in order to provide the highest levels of care possible. IRMC’s vision to be the best community hospital in the nation is the cornerstone to our commitment of caring.