Genesis, New Lexington Schools Partner to Empower Students in Healthcare Careers

ZANESVILLE, OH – Genesis Healthcare System has partnered up with a local school to help students tear down barriers in the healthcare field. 

The New Lexington Schools Workforce Development and Genesis have made a waiver agreement to allow students 16 years and older to work in different fields within the hospital. 

“Honestly this partnership is perfect for us,” Chris Schoelles, the Chief Operating Officer with Genesis, said. “Not only for our ability to be a great learning institution for the students but also because this could be very important for health systems moving forward.” 

With this partnership students will be able to obtain their phlebotomy license, STNA certification and LPN license all before they graduate high school. 

Before this partnership, the barrier age requirement was 18-years-old. This limited the amount of high school students who could capitalize on opportunities to advance their careers.

“We just started this class this year and it has been a great experience.” Isabella Chevalier, a  Student Phlebotomist, said. “I learned how important a phlebotomist’s role is. I’ve also learned in our clinicals from the other phlebotomists and patients, it’s just a really great opportunity.” 

Heather Chubb, a Certified Phlebotomy Technician & Instructor, it’s been a joy watching the students in action.

“It’s been amazing, especially working with the high school students, it’s just been wonderful.” Chubb said. “Typically I try to give them hands on before they reach the clinical portion, to help them work out the nerves. It’s just been wonderful to watch them grow into where they’re at today.” 

The hope with this new agreement between the New Lexington Schools and Genesis is that the job shortage in healthcare can begin to make a turn towards the good with the students’ help.