Contributed PROGRAM OVERVIEW — Cosmetology instructors and students presented an overview of their program during the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School Board of Education meeting May 19. Pictured, from left, are juniors Avery Patterson, Ava Nett and Shaylee Rossi with junior instructor Lillian Thrasher and senior instructor Brianne Schoolcraft.

BLOOMINGDALE — Cosmetology students and instructors at the Jefferson County Joint Vocational School shared how the program is shaping future careers during the recent school board meeting.

Instructors Brianne Schoolcraft and Lillian Thrasher were joined by juniors Shaylee Rossi, Ava Nett and Avery Patterson during the May 19 session, where they presented an overview of the program and how students are training for careers in cosmetology.

Thrasher, who began as the junior instructor last year, used a PowerPoint presentation and asked students what they have learned and what their plans are after graduation. Rossi said she was inspired by friends to join the program, but the opportunity to take post-secondary courses through the College Credit Plus program helped solidify her decision. Patterson also expressed interest in CCP and said she wanted to try something new.

Thrasher noted students must complete 1,500 hours of training before taking the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology exam. Juniors spend their first year learning the foundations of cosmetology, including infection control, shampooing and hairstyling, haircutting, hair coloring and lightening, and chemical services. While seniors primarily work with clients, juniors also have gained experience.

Rossi and Patterson said the program has improved their communication skills, while Nett said she has learned more about working with different people and meeting clients’ expectations.

Schoolcraft highlighted what seniors complete during the second year, including studies in diseases and disorders, anatomy and chemistry, electricity and hair removal, skin care and makeup, nail care and braiding, principles of hair design and hair enhancement.

“This is the year they take their skills to the next level,” Schoolcraft said. “We get them job-ready and work hard to help them pass the state board exam.”

Thrasher said renovations to the salon lab in 2023 have benefited the program, while opening the salon to clients gives students real-world experience.

“It is very state-of-the-art and one of the more modern cosmetology labs in the area,” she said. “The students experience real clients, work in a full salon and build confidence. It builds communication skills, problem-solving skills and time management.”

“I think taking clients this year has helped me a lot,” Rossi said. “I feel very well-rounded.”

“I think it has definitely helped me know what a real career would look like,” Nett added.

“It was a really good opportunity,” Patterson said.

Thrasher said students also learn salon operations, from using a cash register to scheduling appointments. Schoolcraft added students have participated in community events, including the Tim Tebow Foundation’s Night to Shine and Trinity Health System Crimson Connections activities.

Thrasher said the program also collaborates with local salons through its advisory board and guest demonstrations.

“We try to make sure they come in and tell students what it is like,” she said.

Students also have participated in SkillsUSA competitions, including Job Skills Demonstration A and cosmetology contests. Officials noted students must complete 1,500 training hours, finish two years in the program and pass the state board exam while earning boutique and cosmetology licenses to work in the field.

The students said they are considering college while planning to continue working in cosmetology during their studies.

Board Vice President Ron Smyth praised the presentation and the students’ initiative.

“My favorite part of being on the school board is hearing from the students,” Smyth said. “We have so many wonderful students.”

Among other matters, the board:

— Was introduced to the new JVS Teachers’ Association officers, including President Jamie Freeman, Vice President Dale Palmer, secretary Dylan Stickler and secretary Jill Winski;

— Heard from Principal Heather Hoover that the recent senior recognition ceremony was successful, though officials are reviewing event dates, sound system issues and parking for next year. Hoover also thanked Transition To Work instructor Jennifer Davis for gown alterations, aide Dawn Pugh and substitute Brie DeFelice for ironing gowns and office staff for assisting with setup;

— Learned from Treasurer Marcy Haynes that the JVS received the highest achievement award in open transparency during fiscal years 2024-25 from the state auditor’s office;

— Heard from Superintendent Ted Gorman that staff members will be honored May 27 for years of service, including technology coordinator Ron Peach, Transition To Work aide Dawn Pugh and instructors Dale Palmer and Tom Horne;

— Accepted the resignations of welding instructor Todd Parker, who is retiring May 27 after more than 30 years of service, and science instructor Erin D’Aurora, who accepted a position in another district. Those positions were posted along with an English instructor opening for the 2026-27 school year;

— Hired Josann Richards, Mandi Cook and Keith Kaczor as adult education instructors for the summer accelerated program beginning in June. Richards will oversee the certified nurse assistant program, Cook will teach phlebotomy and Kaczor will lead the new HVAC course;

— Approved equipment purchases for the new HVAC program, including workstations, torch kits and tools totaling more than $59,000;

— Set the next regular meeting for June 30 at 5 p.m. in the board conference room.