Power Couple in Training
Power Couple in Training
Balancing Parenthood and School to Build a Secure Future
By M. Churchwell
It really is your mindset. If you want to do it, you will.
- PARIS ORTEGA, PRACTICAL NURSING STUDENT
If you have eaten lunch in The Range this school year, chances are you’ve seen Paris and Jayden, two students at Great Plains Technology Center who are currently balancing education, career goals, and family life. No one could blame you, however, if you focused only on Nylah, their adorable 10-month old who has a giant, dimpled smile for everyone she meets. This inspiring couple juggles parenting their baby daughter while studying in the Practical Nursing (PN) and HVAC programs. Their story proves that with determination, support, and a strong mindset, education is attainable for anyone, no matter the challenges.
Meet Jayden and Paris
The couple’s journey began in high school when Paris was a water girl for the football team Jayden played on. Now, they’re tackling their biggest game yet: building a successful future for their family.
Paris first attended the tech center as a high school student in the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program but decided to further her education in the Practical Nursing (LPN) program to provide a better future for her family. “I wanted to make more money in my career, so I started in the LPN program because I can go to school for one year and make money for our family,” she shares.
Jayden, who works at Billy Sims to support his family, decided to take a chance on the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) program. “I missed the interviews for the tech center, but I thought I would just give it a shot. Luckily, I got into HVAC the day I came for the interview.”
Why Career Tech Works for Them
Becoming parents has shifted their priorities, especially regarding education. “When you’re in high school, most kids aren’t necessarily thinking about moving out and providing a home for your family,” says Paris. “Education is very important because you need it to take care of your family.”
Jayden echoes her sentiment: “Becoming a dad made me grow up and pushed me to do better, pay attention, and finish my education.”
For both, the hands-on training and flexible programs at the tech center have been life-changing. Jayden appreciates the opportunities to connect with industry professionals through his HVAC program, while Paris values the supportive environment among her fellow LPN students, many of whom are also parents.
Balancing Studies, Careers, and Parenthood
A typical day for this power couple is anything but easy. Paris’s mornings start early—5:00 a.m. on clinical days—preparing herself and her baby before heading to school. Jayden ensures Paris gets to class and brings the baby to her for lunchtime feedings before attending his own classes. After school, he heads straight to work, often returning home as late as 9:00 p.m.
Despite their packed schedules, they view parenthood as a motivation rather than an obstacle. “I don’t feel like being a parent is a challenge,” says Paris. “She [Nylah] has helped us a lot because she’s made us more mature and responsible and made us value education and our future even more.”
Jayden admits to feeling tired at times but believes it’s all worth it. “Being parents has pushed us to prepare for the future. We don’t really get days off, but this is good for us.”
We don't really get days off, but this is good for us.
- JAYDEN BENAVIDES, RESIDENTIAL HVAC TECHNICIAN STUDENT
Dreams for the Future
Both Paris and Jayden have ambitious plans for their careers. Paris is committed to continuing her education after completing the LPN program. “I want to get my RN and eventually become a Nurse Practitioner,” she says.
Jayden plans to finish the second year of the HVAC program and is excited about the job security the trades offer. “Different business owners come by and give us advice for the future. Robinson Air told us that even with AI growing, trades will always require people, so there’s job security,” he explains.
Their shared goal is to create a stable, fulfilling life for their family while pursuing careers they’re passionate about.
Inspiration for Others
Paris and Jayden’s journey illustrates the power of perseverance and the importance of education. They acknowledge the challenges but emphasize the rewards. “Getting your education will be hard, but it is worth it,” says Paris. “I don’t have to work thanks to how hard Jayden works and our supportive family. But if Jayden can do it with all he has on his plate, anyone can do it. It’s really your mindset. If you want to do it, you will. Having a baby and going to school is hard because I do miss her when I’m away from her. But I chose to do this for us now while she’s so little because she won’t remember this. I will, but she won’t. If you want it, you will make it happen.”
Jayden encourages others to take the leap: “There are so many hands-on programs here that will get you ready for your future. You can make a good life with this education.”
Their experience reminds us that no matter the obstacles, education is attainable for anyone who dares to dream big and work hard. For Paris and Jayden, it’s not just about building careers—it’s about building a life together for their growing family.
