For many teen parents, completing high school and finding steady employment can be a difficult path. Dontoria Lowe, known as Tori, recently navigated both challenges with the help of a partnership between Chiles Academy and AdventHealth Daytona Beach.
Chiles Academy is a public charter school in Daytona Beach that serves pregnant and parenting students from grades six through twelve. The school combines academics with on-site childcare to help students earn their diplomas while caring for their children.
Three years ago, AdventHealth Daytona Beach began collaborating with Chiles Academy to offer job-shadowing, mentorship, and career exposure within the hospital. Students spend around 40 hours rotating through various departments including laboratory services, patient experience, environmental services, food and nutrition, wellness center, registration, wound care, and front desk areas.
Lowe became one of the first participants to complete this hands-on mentorship program and transition into full-time hospital employment. During her rotations she developed an interest in laboratory work. After graduating from the program, she reached out to hospital leaders about opportunities in blood collection and testing. In response, lab staff created a pilot phlebotomy training program allowing her to work and learn while supporting her young son.
“She’s eager, prepared and a fast learner,” said Terrance Ward, AdventHealth Daytona Beach laboratory assistant. “This is the first time we’ve created a training plan like this in the lab. This program gives young parents real skills, confidence and stability.”
After finishing the training program Lowe now works full-time as a phlebotomist at the hospital.
Local leaders say that the partnership aims to support people as much as it fills positions. Abby Barrett Ferguson, principal and executive director of Chiles Academy said: “Our students are capable, focused and determined. When they’re given access to real-world opportunities and people take the time to invest in them, it can change what they imagine for themselves and their families.”
Shaun Nebblett, director of human resources at AdventHealth Daytona Beach added: “This is about taking time with students and helping them see what’s possible. When we invest in people early, it strengthens families and the community around us.”
Sara Palmer—now practice manager with AdventHealth Medical Group OB/GYN—also attended Chiles Academy as a teen parent more than two decades ago before continuing her education at Daytona State College.
“When I walk into that building, I remember how much support mattered at that stage of my life,” Palmer said. “Having someone believe in you and help you keep moving forward makes a real difference.”
For Lowe herself the opportunity has personal significance: “Growing up, my family struggled, and I don’t want that for my child,” she said. “Being here helps me build a future so my son can look back and see what’s possible.”
Educators and hospital leaders hope Lowe’s story will inspire new participants as more Chiles Academy students prepare to enter the mentorship program.
Dr. David Sinclair president and CEO of AdventHealth Daytona Beach said: “When we invest in young people and meet them where they are, we don’t just change individual lives — we strengthen families and communities. This partnership reflects our commitment to creating pathways to purpose, stability and hope.”
AdventHealth Orlando—located in Orlando since its founding in 1908—is led by president Terry Shaw; it serves as both a pediatric ward provider and a training hospital.
https://www.adventhealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-orlando
