"You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar." Psalm 139:1-2

Aaron Shields
Class of 2008

Following his time as Director of the Youth and Teen Program at the Davis Family YMCA in Boardman, Ohio, Aaron moved across the state border to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Today he serves as Direct Support Professional in the residential housing program with Pressley Ridge Schools, mentoring and providing physical and emotional support to youth diagnosed with mental health and intellectual disabilities.   

When asked about Heartland, Aaron replied, “Heartland Christian School is much more than a place to gather scholastic knowledge. My years there left me with a sense of family and gave me the assurance of unconditional love and respect that helped to form who I am today, and how I view the world.” 

He was a four-year letter winner in both soccer and basketball, and lettered on Heartland's inaugural baseball team during his senior year. He was selected by teammates to serve as team captain three of his seasons, and received a Coaches Award, several Most Valuable Player Awards and was recognized for his Defensive Skills as well as his Spiritual Leadership.

In addition to being a standout athlete, Aaron excelled in academics, receiving the Christian Leadership Award from ACSI, and being elected State Auditor while attending Buckeye Boys State sponsored by the American Legion at Bowling Green University. He was also among only 50 students selected to attend summer Med Camp at NEOUCOM in Rootstown, Ohio. Aaron served as class president for four years. He was chosen to represent his class on the Homecoming Court all four years, and was selected as Homecoming King his senior year. He was active in Student Council, Roaring Lions, the Buddies Program, the Theatrical Society and the Praise & Worship Team. 

After graduating from Heartland in 2008, he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Geneva College in 2012, with a major in Student Ministry, and a minor in Biblical Studies. He is currently pursuing his post-graduate degree in Social Psychology, as he continues to follow one step behind Jesus.

“I am truly blessed to be a product of the collective efforts of many God-fearing men and women at Heartland Christian School. I am truly grateful for my experiences and would encourage anyone, who has been given the opportunity, to take advantage of the resources offered by this life-changing, family oriented school," says Aaron.