Nurse Aide Training Program: Outcomes, Records, and Policies

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to comply with clinical site requirements. Lunder CareForce Institute conducts CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) checks to help ensure the safety of patients, residents, students, and staff.

II. Definition of Terms:

• CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information): Information obtained from the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services that includes criminal history data such as arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions maintained by criminal justice agencies.
• Written Consent: A signed authorization from an applicant or student permitting the Institute to obtain and review CORI information, as required by Massachusetts law.
• Authorized Staff: Institute employees who are designated and trained to request, access, review, and maintain CORI information in compliance with applicable laws and confidentiality requirements.

III. Procedure:
When Screening Occurs

• CORI checks are completed prior to acceptance to the program.
• Students must provide written consent for the CORI checks.

Evaluation of Results

• The Lunder CareForce Institute evaluates results consistent with Massachusetts regulations and the hiring standards used by health-care facilities. 
• A finding on a CORI report does not automatically disqualify an applicant from admission. The Lunder CareForce Institute will engage in an individualized assessment of the results, considering without limitations the following relevant factors: Relevant factors may include:

1. Nature and seriousness of the offense
2. Date of the offense and time elapsed
3. Relevance to job duties of the nurse aide role
4. Evidence of rehabilitation

• If a result may affect participation in the Nurse Aide Training program, the applicant will be notified in writing, identifying the information in the CORI that is the basis for the potential adverse action, given a copy of the CORI report, and given an opportunity to dispute the accuracy of the report, provide additional information, or request reconsideration in compliance with Massachusetts and federal law.

IV. Responsibilities:
Applicants/Students must:

• Consent to screening
• Provide accurate information
• Participate in the review process

V. Consequences: Students who decline to provide authorization for a background check, or who provide false information, cannot be admitted to/continue in the program or attend clinical training.

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to establish the requirements and procedures for student enrollment in the Nurse Aide Training Program. It ensures that admission is fair, consistent, non-discriminatory and in compliance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) standards and private occupational school requirements.

II. Definitions:

• Applicant: Any individual who submits a completed Nurse Aide Interest/Application Form for admission to the Nurse Aide Training Program.
• Admissions: The determination that an applicant meets all program eligibility and screening requirements and is approved to proceed with enrollment in the Nurse Aide Training Program.
• Enrollment: The formal process by which an applicant is accepted, registered and begins the Nurse Aide Training Program.
• Screening Evaluation: An assessment conducted by a Lunder CareForce Institute employee, either in person or online, to determine applicant readiness, communication ability, professionalism, and suitability for participation, including an English comprehension survey.
• Employee-Sponsored Applicant: An individual whose tuition or enrollment is funded or supported by an employer.
• Grant-Sponsored Applicant: An individual whose enrollment is funded or supported through a grant.

III. Procedure:
Eligibility / Requirements-Applicants: 

• Must be 16 years of age or older. Parental consent required for under 18 years of age.
• Must pass the English reading and comprehension screening.
• High school diploma/equivalent OR enrolled in high school program or equivalent.
• Must have successfully passed the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) background check. Cost of screening to be paid for by the Lunder CareForce Institute.
• Two forms of identification (one must be government issued, i.e. driver’s license or passport).
• Proof of physical exam and updated immunizations as outlined in the program website & enrollment agreement or provide a valid letter of exemption for any of the health requirements. 
• Must have and attest to having health insurance coverage throughout program.
• Must have access to internet and have a computer with working audio and camera.

Application Process:

• Complete the Nurse Aide Interest/Application Form located on the program website.
• Register for and attend the eligibility screening evaluation, conducted in person or online, which includes an English comprehension assessment during the screening evaluation.
• There is no application fee.

Admission and enrollment are contingent upon successful completion of the screening evaluation and clearance of all eligibility requirements, including health and background.

Selection:

• Enrollment is offered on a first-come, first-served basis or by program-specific selection criteria if more eligible applicants apply than available seats. 
• Admission is based on the results of the screening evaluation, English comprehension survey and meeting program eligibility requirements. 
• The program does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, or disability.

Enrollment Confirmation: Enrollment/Admission is finalized only when:

• Health and background requirements are cleared. 
• Tuition/fees (if applicable) are paid.
• Enrollment Agreement is signed. 
• Employee-sponsored applicants complete any additional employer requirements.
• Grant-sponsored applicants complete all required grant documentation. 
• Confirmation is sent via email to the address provided in the Nurse Aide Interest/Application Form.

IV. Responsibilities:
Applicants/Students: Submit all required documentation. Register for and attend the screening evaluation. Meet all eligibility requirements. Sign the Enrollment Agreement. Employee-sponsored or grant-sponsored applicants must complete any additional sponsor-required documentation or requirements.

V. Consequences:

• Applicants who fail to meet any eligibility or application requirement or provide falsified information will be denied enrollment. 
• Students whose eligibility requirements are later found to be incomplete or non-compliant may be removed from the program. 
• Employee-sponsored or grant-sponsored applicants who fail to complete sponsor-required documentation or requirements may be denied enrollment or removed from the program.

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to ensure that all students enrolled in the Nurse Aide Training Program receive access to academic, personal, and career guidance throughout the course of their training. The goal is to support student success, well-being, and professional readiness. 

II. Definition of Terms:
Guidance and Counseling: Guidance and counseling refers to the academic, career, and supportive community services provided to assist students in successfully participating in and completing their program. Services include help with understanding program requirements, academic advising, and community support information. Counseling is non-therapeutic and limited to educational and supportive assistance for academic, behavioral, or personal challenges that may affect a student’s training.

III. Procedure:
Access to Guidance Counseling
Students will have access to counseling throughout their enrollment.

• Initial Orientation and Advising
  • At program start, students will receive orientation on available counseling resources, including academic support, tutoring, and community resources.
  • Each student will be provided with staff contact information.
• Academic Progress Monitoring
  • Instructors will monitor student performance, attendance, and clinical readiness.
  • If a student demonstrates difficulty, timely referrals will be made to counseling resources.
• Confidentiality
  • All counseling interactions will be confidential, consistent with Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and institutional privacy policies, except where disclosure is legally required.
• Personal Support Referrals
  • If students experience barriers such as financial, housing, health, or family concerns, staff will provide referrals to appropriate community resources and support services.
• Career Counseling
  • Students will receive guidance on certification testing requirements.
  • Information on continuing education opportunities, such as LPN or RN pathways, will also be provided.
• Documentation
  • Counseling sessions related to academic progress or program continuation will be documented in the student’s file.
  • Documentation will include nature of concern, recommendations, and student acknowledgment.
• Non-Discrimination
  • Counseling services will be provided equitably to all students regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

IV. Responsibilities: 
Students: Responsible for seeking assistance when needed and engaging in counseling when referred.
V. Consequences: Students who do not participate in guidance and counseling services when needed may face academic challenges that may impact successful completion of the training program.

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to outline the career support services provided by the Nurse Aide Training Program. Guidance and support for job placement is provided.

II. Definition of Terms:

• Career Support Services: Resources and assistance provided by the Nurse Aide Training Program to help students prepare for employment.
• Job Referral: Information shared with students regarding potential employment opportunities at healthcare facilities.

III. Procedure:
Career Support Services: The program provides resources to help students find employment, including:

• Resume and cover letter assistance
• Interview preparation
• Job search guidance
• Referrals to healthcare facilities

Job Referrals

• Students may receive information about available positions in local healthcare facilities.
• The program may provide letters of recommendation or verification of program completion.

Employment Guarantees

• Completion of the nurse aide training program does not guarantee employment.
• The Nurse Aide Training program cannot promise placement in any specific facility.

Follow-Up Support

• Graduates may contact the Nurse Aide Training Program for coaching or advice regarding career opportunities after completion.

Additional Information

• For questions regarding employment or job placement assistance, students should contact the Nurse Aide Training Program Manager or an Instructor.

IV. Responsibilities:
Student Responsibility: Students are responsible for actively seeking employment, submitting applications, and attending interviews. Success in job placement depends on the student’s initiative, qualifications, and local job market conditions.

V. Consequences: Failure to actively participate in career support activities or to pursue employment opportunities does not impact program completion but may limit employment outcomes. 

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to affirm Lunder CareForce Institute’s commitment to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and applicable federal and Massachusetts regulations, the Institute ensures that qualified individuals with disabilities have equal access to educational programs, services, activities, and facilities. This policy establishes the framework for requesting, reviewing, and implementing reasonable accommodations to support equal participation in the Nurse Aide Training Program.

The Institute will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified students with documented disabilities when such accommodations do not fundamentally alter program requirements or compromise essential program standards, clinical competencies, patient safety, or regulatory requirements. Students are responsible for requesting accommodations in a timely manner and providing appropriate documentation, as outlined in the Institute’s ADA procedures.

II. Definition of Terms:
Terms used in this policy have the following general meaning, unless otherwise defined by applicable state or local law: 

• Disability: A “disability” under the ADA is a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (e.g., learning, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, concentrating). It also includes individuals with a record of such an impairment or those regarded as having such an impairment. 
• Qualified Individual with a Disability: A person who meets the essential eligibility requirements of the Program with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Reasonable Accommodation: A modification or adjustment to policies, practices, procedures, educational materials, facilities, or training activities that enables a qualified individual with a disability to participate fully in the Program without altering the fundamental nature of the training. Examples could include, without limitation, extended time for exams, note-taking assistance, alternative formats for materials, assistive technology, or sign language interpretation. 
• Auxiliary Aids and Services: Support services or devices that ensure effective communication for individuals with disabilities (e.g., interpreters, captioning, screen readers). 
• Undue Burden: A significant difficulty or expense relative to the size, resources, and nature of the Program. If an accommodation request creates an undue burden, the Program may explore alternative effective solutions.
• Legal Framework: The ADA is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It applies to programs offered by both public entities and many private entities that serve the public, including training programs and educational services. Covered entities must not deny participation on the basis of disability, must provide equal opportunity, and must offer reasonable accommodations unless doing so would create an undue burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the services, program or activity.
• Multidisciplinary Review Committee:  dedicated group designed for the purposes of reviewing student grievance and disciplinary issues. 

III. Procedure:
Accessibility
The Nurse Aide Training Program will ensure that:

• The Nurse Aid Training Program facilities, digital content, and instructional materials are accessible and free of barriers where reasonable
• Policies are modified when necessary to prevent discrimination on the basis of disability, subject to the conditions outlined above
• Auxiliary aids and services are provided for effective communication, subject to the conditions outlined above
• Dedicated ADA coordinator provides oversight of practices related to ADA policy

Confidentiality

• Medical and disability-related information disclosed by students will be kept confidential and stored securely, accessible only to staff involved in accommodation processes

Reasonable Accommodation Process

• Request Submission: Students submit an accommodation request to the ADA Coordinator with supporting documentation (Appendix A) via email info@lundercarforce.org, or mail or deliver in person to the main office. 
• Evaluation: The ADA Coordinator reviews the request and consults with relevant parties within 10-15 business days to determine whether the program can accommodate the request and/or whether other effective accommodations are available. 
• Implementation: Approved accommodations are communicated to instructors (to the extent necessary for implementation) and implemented promptly.
• Review: Students or instructors may request review or adjustments if accommodations are not effective or need modifications.

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations 

• Extended time for tests or assessments.
• Note-taking support or access to lecture materials in alternate formats.
• Sign language interpreters or real-time captioning.
• Assistive listening devices, screen-reader compatible materials, or adaptive software.

Classroom adjustments or flexibility in attendance policies when justified. 
Note that suspending a school’s code of conduct, lowering academic eligibility requirements, significant taxation of the resources of the school faculty, providing new programs or curricula, auxiliary aids and services that impose significant difficulty or expense, and waiving academic program requirements, among other requested accommodations, are unreasonable and not required under the ADA. 

Non-Retaliation

• Students and staff shall not be subject to retaliation or adverse action for
• Requesting or participating in the accommodation process or filing ADA complaints. 

Grievance Procedure
Should a student be denied accommodation or have an unresolved concern after submitting a request for accommodation, they may file a grievance.

1. Appendix B is to be completed and sent to the ADA Coordinator via email to info@lundercareforce.org, or mail or deliver in person to the main office. 
2. The ADA Coordinator will conduct an intake with the student / staff within 5 business days after receiving the written grievance. 
3. A final report of the Multidisciplinary Review Committee response will be written and provided within 10-15 days after completing the intake. 
4. Documentation of the grievance and formal report will be retained for 7 years. 
5. ADA related complaints will be addressed promptly, fairly and without retaliation.

IV. Responsibilities:
Student Responsibilities

• Self-identification: Informing the ADA Coordinator of a disability and the need for accommodations.
• Documentation: Submitting appropriate documentation that supports the need for accommodations. 
• Participation: Engaging in the interactive process regarding reasonable accommodations and providing information necessary to evaluate accommodation requests.
• Timeliness: Making requests for accommodations in a timely manner to allow effective implementation.

V. Consequences:
Student: Failure to follow the procedure may result in delayed response. In complete documentation or failure to respond to questions or additional request may result in lack of ADA accommodation.

I. Purpose/Policy: The purpose of this policy is to ensure the responsible use, care, and management of Nurse Aide Training Program issued reusable textbooks and laptop computers. These resources are essential learning tools, and proper care helps to maintain equitable access, reduce replacement costs, and support a safe, effective learning environment. The Lunder CareForce Institute provides these items for educational purposes only and all users must follow established procedures to prevent damage, loss or misuse.

II. Definitions Of Terms:

• Reusable Equipment: Program issued instructional materials intended for use by multiple students over time, including textbooks, uniforms, laptop computers, chargers, protective bags, and related accessories.
• Textbooks: Printed or digital instructional books provided by the Program for academic use and expected to be returned in good condition at the end of the course or program.
• Laptop Computers (Laptops): Program-issued portable computing devices provided to students for educational and academic purposes only. Personal computers may be used, if desired.
• Accessories: Items issued with laptops, including but not limited to power chargers, protective cases or bags, and other required peripherals.
• Normal Wear and Tear: Reasonable deterioration that occurs through ordinary, careful use of equipment over time, excluding damage caused by misuse, neglect, or accidents.
• Damage: Any condition that affects the functionality, appearance, or usability of the equipment beyond normal wear and tear, including cracks, water damage, missing keys, torn pages, or unauthorized modifications.
• Misuse: Use of textbooks or laptops in a manner inconsistent with this policy, including non-academic use, installation of unauthorized software, intentional damage, or failure to follow care and handling

III. Procedure:
Distribution and Checkout: 

• Textbooks and laptops will be assigned to individual students through an established inventory system on the first day of classes.  A $20.00 book use fee will be assessed. 
• Students must confirm receipt and acknowledge responsibility for the items. 
• Any pre-existing damage must be reported within 24 hours of receiving the items.

Care and Handling: 

• Students are expected to keep textbooks free from writing, torn pages or water damage.
• Textbooks are to be stored in a clean, dry location when not in use.
• Laptops are to be stored and transported in their protective bags when not in use.
• Food and drinks are to be kept away from laptops.
• Only program approved software may be installed.
• Students must not attempt repair-all technical issues must be reported to faculty for follow-up.

Daily Use Expectations

• Students are expected to bring their charged laptops and textbook to class each day.
• Laptops should only be used for program related academic tasks.

Return of Items

• All textbooks and laptops must be returned by the designated date at the end of the course or upon withdrawal
• Items must be returned in the same condition they were issued, aside from normal wear
• Missing chargers, cases, or accessories mut also be replaced or paid for
• Uniforms do not have to be returned.

IV. Responsibilities:
Student Responsibilities: 

• Using all program-issued reusable equipment solely for educational purposes.
• Exercising reasonable care in the handling, storage, and daily use of textbooks, laptops, and accessories.
• Keeping issued equipment secure and protected from damage, loss, or theft.
• Reporting any pre-existing damage, malfunction, loss, or theft promptly to faculty or designated staff.
• Returning all issued items, including accessories, by the designated deadline and in acceptable condition.

V. Consequences: Failure of the students to follow this policy will result in:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Temporary loss of laptop privileges

1. Financial responsibility for replacement
   1. Laptop and accessories total: $350.00
   2. Textbook: $65.00