Contributed A CHANCE TO LEARN — Junior cosmetology instructor Lillian Thrasher demonstrates how to properly shampoo a client as she prepares students for a future in the field at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School.

BLOOMINGDALE — Cosmetology is a form of artistry with people as the canvas, and at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School the program’s students are bringing beauty to the world in a real-life setting.

Instructors Brianne Schoolcraft and Lillian Thrasher teach 29 students, with Schoolcraft leading 14 seniors and Thrasher helming the 15-member junior class. Schoolcraft said interest has grown in the program and this year fewer than half of the students who registered made the cut.

“This year we had 70 people sign up but only accepted 20 (new pupils), so there’s definitely a growing interest and I think the program can expand,” Schoolcraft said.

For now, students learn everything from shampooing and styling to manicures and will have an opportunity to put that knowledge into practice when the school salon opens for business Oct. 1. Patrons can make appointments on Monday and Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and students will provide cuts, colors, updos, manicures and related services.

Until then, Schoolcraft said they were preparing for their craft. Students must complete a state-approved beauty program, pass required exams and apply through the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology to obtain a license to work in the field.

“Currently, the juniors are learning basic shampoo skills, consultation skills and blow-drying skills that are taught by Thrasher, plus they are learning infection control to keep everybody safe,” she added. “The seniors started the year learning hair removal, manicuring and reviewing their skills to take clients.”

Thrasher was pleased with her group, saying they were motivated and enthusiastic.

“They are a really great group of juniors. They’ve taken to the program very easily and are excited to learn,” she added.

She noted that her former juniors have advanced to the senior level and set the standard for the newer class.

“The current seniors set the bar high and the juniors are exceeding my expectations,” Thrasher commented.

All of the training has led to numerous graduates moving on to local salons. Schoolcraft said 10 pupils have found work at Legal Hair and Day Spa, Halo Salon, Great Clips and Be Salon during the past two years. They have also gained experience by providing manicures and hand massages at women’s health festivities sponsored by Trinity Health System and giving makeovers to participants at the annual Night to Shine prom held by Crossroads North River Church and the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities in Toronto.

But Schoolcraft, who has been part of the JVS faculty for the past four years with Thrasher entering her second year, hopes to see the program evolve.

“I would like to see a barbering program or an aesthetician program for skin care. I think we are putting out young stylists who are excited, and I think they are more prepared than they ever have been.”

Among them are seniors Chloe Fisher, Mylie Powley and Joshlyn Roghelia, who all plan to make careers for themselves upon graduation.

“It lets you explore and helps get your foot into the field,” said Fisher, who attends Toronto High School. “I’ve always loved everything about (cosmetology) and thought it would be perfect for me.”

Powley, whose home school is Edison, agreed.

“I think our senior year prepares us more and we find out what it’s like to work with a real client,” she added. “It’s a really good career and helps build your future at a young age.”

“Cosmetology has definitely taught us to move forward and prepares us for future careers,” said Roghelia, who attends Indian Creek High School. “I hope to have my own salon.”

Juniors Adriona Famal and Victoria Dear are on similar paths with dreams to work in the field.

“I’ve always loved doing hair and makeup,” said Famal, a student at Harrison Central High School.

“I’ve done my own hair and we both want to have careers,” added Dear, who attends at Toronto.