What sets us apart from the rest

Check it out for yourself! We are dedicated to providing you with the BEST education possible. Our programs go above and beyond the State Requirements to give you the best opportunities to grow in your career.   

Guest Speakers

Apex Academy welcomes professionals from all areas to share their expertise and lend advice that is applicable to our future professionals. Guest Speakers have included : Financial Advisers, Health Care Providers, Salon Owners, Independent Consultants, Product Educators, Fitness Coaches, Community Awareness Advocates and many more. 

Skill Requirements

We believe that the more you practice something the better you become! Therefore, Apex Academy has designed 'Skill Requirements' to ensure you have the practice needed before Graduation.  The best part is, the skills are practiced on live models providing you with a realistic outcome.  Click the button below and look for the "Practice Makes Perfect" section for specifics.

Personal Portfolio

 Is there a better way to showcase your hard work and dedication while at Apex Academy than compiling an impressive Portfolio? The students compile a collection of photographs, client reviews, letters of recommendation, qualifications and achievements. The portfolio is a key component while interviewing for positions, post- graduation.  

Business Unit

Apex Academy helps prepare students for employment through a business unit. The unit includes information about resumes, building a portfolio and interview readiness.

Click the link below to view our 10 Year Anniversary video and catch a glimpse of what we offer here at Apex Academy!

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TourS, SHADOWING & internship

We feel that exposing the students to many different salons will help them make an informed decision when selecting a position, post- graduation. ​Students at Apex  Academy have several opportunities to explore and observe salons, locally and beyond. Organized group tours are scheduled annually. Also, students individually shadow different salons of their choice throughout the program. Interning with a salon of choice is also offered for Cosmetology Students who qualify.

Creative Assignments

  •  Tracking Journal
  • Business Project
  • Budgeting Activities
  • Community Service
  • Me, Myself & My Hair
  • Photoshoots
  • pH Testing
  • Inspiration Project
  • And more!

ABOUT Our Academy

Apex Academy

Apex Academy is a family owned and operated adult training facility for Cosmetology, which includes the study of hair, skin and nails. Apex offers two programs; Cosmetology 1500 program and Advanced Manicuring 300 program.  Each program is approved by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology in Columbus, Ohio.  Once the student reaches the required hours and becomes certified in each area, the student is permitted to continue training in the student clinic, which is like a “real” salon within the facility.  The student clinic is open to the general public for all salon services at a minimal cost.

The company was established in June of 2013 and currently operates in a 6,750 square foot facility, which is located at 1788 West Fourth Street in Ontario, Ohio.  Apex Academy is the first privately owned Cosmetology school in Richland County since the 1960’s.  Kathleen Hartings opened Apex Academy with the vision of expanding within five years.  The original space was 4,500 square feet and after four years, 2,250 square foot was added for another lunchroom for the students and two offices. 
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It is our mission to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students.  The students receive preparation through classes and actual clinical experiences.  Apex Academy’s main goal is to prepare students to pass the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology’s licensing examination.  In addition, we strive to develop confident students who are equipped for a career in the Cosmetology industry.
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In 2012, the building was purchase and the construction began.  Steve Hartings, a general contractor, Kathleen’s husband, along with other family members, renovated the space.  Karli Hartings Blevins  , daughter of Kathleen and Steve, was very instrumental with the opening process with the help from her Associate’s Degree in business she earned from North Central State College.   Karli is currently serving as part of the Administration Team as well as earning the title as Financial Aid Director.  In 2014, another daughter, Kelsey Hartings Neutzling, joined Apex with a bachelor’s degree in Education and is currently the Lead Instructor, as well as being a part of the Administration Team.  Both daughters have brought experience in their specific areas, along with innovative ideas and technology.

KathLeen
​Legal Owner, CEO & Substitute Instructor

Kathy is a visionary with determination.  She likes gardening, cooking, collecting beach glass, doing home improvements projects and spending time with family at their lake house.   Kathy is most inspired by the elderly, especially her late mother.  Kathy has an Advanced Cosmetology license and Instructor’s license.  Her favorite quote is “Less is more.”

Karli 
​ Director, Financial Aid Administrator & Instructor

Karli is ambitious and kind hearted.  She likes spending time outdoors, gardening, and cooking.  Karli Is inspired by her family members; but specifically her parents' who give unconditionally and are great role models.  Karli has an Advanced Cosmetology license, an Instructor’s license, as well as an Independent Contractor’s license.  She also has an Associates’ degree in Business.  

Kelsey
 Administrator & Lead Instructor
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Kelsey is creative, energetic and cheerful.  She enjoys reading, fishing and boating.  Kelsey has an Advanced Cosmetology license, an Instructor’s license, as well as an Independent Contractor’s license.  She also has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and an Ohio Teaching license as an Intervention Specialist.  Her favorite quote is “Follow your heART.”

Robin
 Instructor

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Robin is easy going with a gentle spirit.  She likes spending time with her family, especially around a campfire, doing renovation projects with her husband and raising chickens.  Robin is most inspired by young people learning their craft.  Robin has an Advanced Cosmetology license, an Instructor’s license as well as an Independent Contractor’s license.  She also has a Microblading Artist certification.  Her favorite quote is “Take one day at a time.”

Coldan
Instructor​
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Coldan is very enthusiastic, fun and capable of completing a challenge.  He is active in local theater and enjoys gardening.  Coldan makes people feel comfortable and has a wealth of product knowledge.  Coldan has an Advanced Cosmetology license, an Instructor’s license and is a Galion Community Theater Board Member.  His favorite quote is “Keep going, because you did not come this far just to come this far.”

Kayla
Instructor​
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Kayla is thoughtful and compassionate. She enjoys her time spent with her family, hiking and reading. She is inspired by her husband, parents and bonus kids. Kayla has an Advanced Cosmetology license, an Instructor’s license as well as an Independent Contractor’s license. She loves the quote "The best views come after the toughest climb."

Theresa
INSTRUCTOR​

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 Theresa is charismatic and a motivator. Theresa loves making people around her feel better about themselves. She is a true "creative" who enjoys transformations such as hair design, makeovers, designing/renovating spaces, gardening, planning an event, and putting an outfit together! She and her family LOVE travelling abroad, boating, and "glamping." Theresa has an Advanced Cosmetologist License, an Instructor's License, and an Independent Contractor's License. She firmly believes, "If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you."

Steve
​General Contractor,  Building MAINTENANCE & Custodial

Steve is very hard working and reliable.  He enjoys spending time with his family, attending sporting events and remodeling projects.   Steve is a master craftsman and carpenter by trade. 

Check out our Facility

Apex Academy is a beautiful 6,750 square foot educational facility with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to hair, skin and nails.  The academy has two student break rooms, two dispensaries, shampoo room, facial area, classroom (with practice area), student clinic, reception area, student library, Instructors' Office and Administrative Offices.
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APEX ACADEMY HAIR SKIN NAILS SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY

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