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JSEC Life Science Institute is soaring to new heights with this year’s introduction of a new dental program. The program has begun and allowed students to learn about many different aspects of the dentist profession. Ms. Testa, JSEC’S Principal, introduced this program into the curriculum offerings in 2025 and aligns with JSEC’s Redesign Plan. The overall goal is to provide students with multiple pathways to make their high school experience one with rigor with real world experiences while progressing through their high school courses.
“Launch Your Future at Juanita Sanchez Educational Complex (JSEC)! With a personalized hybrid schedule and WIN (What I Need) time, every student gets the support they need. Here, you don’t have to choose between college or career. Our career pathways open doors to real opportunities, and you graduate ready with both college credits and industry credentials in hand”-A. Testa
Please click on the link below to meet the Principal, Ms. Testa, Ms. Paniccia the Dental Program Leader, and some of our JSEC students:
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JSEC students, faculty, parents, and community members are excited about this program and the JSEC Newspaper Staff thought to interview Ms. Rebecca Paniccia, the Dental Program’s Head Teacher, to find out about her and what the program is all about.
INTERVIEW:
- Zariyah: Tell us about you, what you teach, where are you from, and what you do here at JSEC?
- Ms. Paniccia: I am a Mom of two kids, with fur-kids. I also run a rescue called “WALKERS WAY RESCUE”. I teach the CTE Dental Assisting Program here at JSEC. I have been a Certified Dental Assistant for over 27 years.
- Zariyah: Can you tell us about the Dental Program?
- Ms. Paniccia: This is the 4th Year CTE Program that provides the basic dental needs to become a Dental Assistant in the State of Rhode Island and also providing dental X-Ray Training. The program also provides CPR, First-Aid, & OSHA Training. program also provides CPR, First-Aid, & OSHA Training.
- Zariyah: What certifications or careers will students be able to obtain now or in the future from using classes from the Dental Assisting classes as a foundation?
- Ms. Paniccia: You can be a Dental Assistant with certifications in Dental X-Ray and other careers include: Dental Receptionists, Sterile Technicians, Dental Insurance Associate, Dental Supply Representative, Dental Pharmaceutical Sales, Office Managers, Dental Schedule Coordinator, Dental Hygienist, etc…. Many more careers can branch off from taking these classes which build a foundation to launch dental careers.
- Zariyah: How many students will take Dental Classes this year at JSEC?
- Ms. Paniccia: Currently we have 10 official dental assistant students but a lot more will want to continue next year for 2026-2027. We anticipate at least 21 more students participating in program and receiving certifications.
- Zariyah: What is the best thing about the Dental Program?
- Ms. Paniccia: One of the best things is that you can get hands on, state of the art training with a prand new fully functioning working dental lab. The lab is being organized and constructed this year and will be fully functioning for the 2026-2027 school year.
- Zariyah: What type of activities do students participate in when taking your classes?
- Ms. Paniccia: PPE, Vital Signs, Dental Impressions, 4-handed dentistry, Digital X-Rays, Z-Science Software, 3-D Printing, Assisting Dentist with Fillings, Learn about Extractions & Root Canals.
- Zariyah: Is there anything extra you would like to tell us about this dental program here at JSEC:
- Ms. Paniccia: Students will benefit from a great career with many options to move up in health care pathways. These classes serve as a foundation and also allows students to add a lot to their resumes.
According the JSEC’s Program of Studies the premiere class title is “Foundations of Dental Professions”. It is an introductory course designed for high school students interested in exploring careers in the dental field. This class will provide a comprehensive overview of dental professions, including roles such as dental hygienists, dental assistants, and dentists. Students will learn about dental anatomy, oral health, preventive care, and the fundamentals of patient care. This course aims to equip students with foundational knowledge and skills to pursue further education in the dental field or related healthcare professions. Through exploration and practical experience, students will gain insights into the dynamic and rewarding nature of dental careers.
