A new collaboration between Delaware City Schools, Marion Technical College and Ohio Living Sarah Moore is providing a unique opportunity for area high school students to earn their Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credentials cost-free. Considered an entry-level role and the jump point for various nursing careers, CNAs provide basic care to patients and work in a variety of settings, including senior living communities, hospitals, home healthcare and rehabilitation facilities.
“One of our goals with this program is to spark an interest in healthcare careers for students, many of which are available right here in Delaware,” explained Aric Arnett, executive director of Ohio Living Sarah Moore. “When students are 17, 18, 19 – it is very difficult to figure out what they want to do for the rest of their lives. Through this program, we allow them to experiment and learn about fulfilling job opportunities in their own backyard.”
An inaugural cohort of 13 high school students started the nonconsecutive 15-week program in January 2025 and are expected to complete it in May 2025. Program components include virtual training, in-person skills training and a clinical experience with residents at Ohio Living Sarah Moore. Marion Technical College is leading instruction of the program and observation of the clinicals.
"Many of the students in the program intend to go into the healthcare profession and are wanting real-world experiences before heading off to college," explained Jennifer Pollard, college and career counselor at Delaware City Schools. "With many colleges having stringent admissions criteria for their nursing programs, having a CNA and work experience in the field will give these students an edge over other applicants who do not have these credentials and experiences."
Students’ in-person skills training will take place in a newly outfitted CNA lab that was funded by Ohio Living Foundation donors. Located at Rutherford B. Hayes High School, the CNA lab features beds, chairs, supplies and equipment, as well as weekly linen services provided by the Ohio Living Sarah Moore laundry team.
Arnett added, “I think it’s really important for students to shadow different careers and try things out. There is a growing need for healthcare workers, and we are going to continue to feel the effects of the diminishing numbers of nurses and caregivers. If any of these students end up becoming nurses, there will be more nurses in the world, and that’s a win for everyone. Furthermore, I believe these students will remember their clinical experience at Ohio Living Sarah Moore and what a privilege it is to work in long-term care. They may return to explore opportunities here or with another senior living provider in the area.”
To learn more about how you can contribute to similar efforts through Ohio Living Foundation’s Workforce Investment initiative, email us at giving@ohioliving.org.