Each month, OhioMeansJobs (OMJ) Allen County recognizes one outstanding high school student as its Student Employee of the Month. For November 2025, we’re proud to shine the spotlight on Leah Hardwick, whose compassion, professionalism, and dedication to helping others truly set her apart.
Leah is a senior at Elida High School and is currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program at Apollo Career Center. Before attending Apollo, Leah also took an Early Childhood Education course at Elida High School, which first sparked her passion for working with children and gave her a strong foundation for her current studies.
Through Apollo’s hands-on program, Leah is expanding her knowledge of child development, lesson planning, and classroom management, all while preparing for a future career in human services.
Beyond the classroom, Leah is gaining valuable real-world experience at Shawnee Weekday Early Learning Center in Shawnee, Ohio. There, she works directly with children, creating a fun and nurturing environment where young learners can grow and thrive. Her patience, creativity, and natural ability to connect with others shine through in everything she does.
After graduation, Leah plans to pursue a career in social work, where she can continue making a difference in the lives of children and families throughout her community. Her dedication and compassion make her a standout among her peers and an excellent representative of the Apollo Career Center’s Early Childhood Education program.
OhioMeansJobs Allen County congratulates Leah Hardwick on being named November’s Student Employee of the Month and looks forward to seeing her continued success as she pursues her calling in social work.
Know a hardworking Allen County high school senior excelling in both school and their future career field? Nominate them for Student Employee of the Month by filling out the Nomination Form.
Want to see more about Leah’s achievement? Watch the feature here: https://youtu.be/TK-DKX4XNRQ?si=CcIEwru9MecwrvQ4
