Entrepreneurship Academy
Cosmetology
Transforming Creativity into Professional Skill
The Cosmetology program allows students to explore beauty as both an art form and a career pathway. Through hands-on training in hair, nails, skin care, and salon management, students develop the technical and professional skills needed to succeed in the beauty industry.
Students learn in a collaborative, creative environment where they can experiment with design, practice real techniques, and build confidence while working with mannequins and peers. The program encourages creativity while also emphasizing professionalism, sanitation standards, and client communication.
Course Sequence
Students progress through a four-year sequence that builds both technical skills and business knowledge.
9th Grade
10th Grade
11th Grade
12th Grade
Grooming & Salon Services
Shampooing
Hair Cutting
Salon Management
Certifications
Students earn industry-recognized credentials that demonstrate professional readiness.
Barbicide Certification
Students earn certification in sanitation and disinfection protocols that meet industry safety standards.
Additional optional certifications may include:
- Nail Technician
- Makeup Artistry
- Lash Application
- Braiding
“I have competed in SkillsUSA and earned first place three times. Competing alongside other talented stylists pushed me to grow and refine my skills.”
- Caliyah Mann (12th grade)
Competitions and Achievements
Students in the Cosmetology program actively compete and gain real-world experience through SkillsUSA competitions.
Several students have competed in areas such as nail care, barbering, hair weave, esthetics, and cosmetology.
Achievements include:
- First, second, and third place finishes at regional and state SkillsUSA competitions
- Multiple national-level competition appearances
- Individual students placing multiple times in their events
Career Pathways
The Cosmetology program prepares students for many careers within the beauty and personal care industry.
Possible pathways include:
- Hairstylist
- Nail Technician
- Makeup Artist
- Beauty Influencer
- Product Developer
- Salon Owner
- Cosmetology Instructor
Students also gain transferable skills such as entrepreneurship, client communication, and professional branding.
Student Voices
Learning Through Real Experience
Students regularly take on creative challenges that push their technical and artistic skills.
Some of the most memorable projects include creative mannequin challenges, timed nail competitions, and complex hairstyling assignments.
“We had to design a themed mannequin using materials like flowers, paint, and pipe cleaners. My theme was a forest fairytale.”- Leeangelly Morales (11th grade)
“We had to design a themed mannequin using materials like flowers, paint, and pipe cleaners. My theme was a forest fairytale.”- Leeangelly Morales (11th grade)
Teacher Perspective
Ms. Candice Crapp & Ms. Secundina Vargas
“The primary mission of our academy is to transform creative passion into professional excellence. We provide students with a comprehensive foundation in hair, skin, and nail care while fostering artistic confidence to thrive in the competitive beauty industry.” - Ms. Crapp
Students gain both technical and professional skills, including:
- Client consultation
- Professional sanitation standards
- Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
- Nail care and facial services
- Business operations and salon management
Successful students also develop important professional traits such as resilience, time management, communication, and the ability to build a professional brand through portfolios and social media.
The program prepares students for careers by providing hands-on training in a simulated professional environment while also supporting resume building and portfolio development.
Advice for Future Students
Current students encourage future participants to take advantage of the creative opportunities the program offers.
Program Legacy
The Cosmetology program has a strong track record of student success. Many alumni have gone on to become salon owners, instructors, and entrepreneurs within the beauty industry.
Students leave the program with technical expertise, industry experience, and the confidence to pursue careers in a growing and creative field.
