Jefferson County JVS cosmetology students to open public salon Oct. 1

Cosmetology students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School are preparing to serve clients in a real-world setting when the school salon opens to the public Oct. 1.

The program enrolls 29 students this year, with instructor Brianne Schoolcraft leading 14 seniors and instructor Lillian Thrasher teaching 15 juniors. Interest continues to climb, Schoolcraft said, noting that 70 people signed up and 20 new students were accepted for the latest class.

“For now, students learn everything from shampooing and styling to manicures,” Schoolcraft said. “Public 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 to build confidence in their clientele.”

Students must complete a state-approved program, pass required exams and apply through the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology to obtain a license.

“Juniors are learning basic shampoo, consultation and blow-drying skills, plus infection control to keep everyone safe,” Schoolcraft said. “Seniors started the year with hair removal, manicuring and reviewing their skills to take clients.”

Thrasher praised her class. “They’ve taken to the program easily and are excited to learn,” she said. “Since we only took 20 students, they realize how lucky they are to make the cut.” She added that the current seniors “set the bar high,” and the juniors are exceeding expectations.

Graduates have moved on to local salons, including Legal Hair and Day Spa, Halo Salon, Great Clips and Be Salon. Students also gain experience by offering manicures and hand massages at women’s health events with Trinity Health System and by doing makeovers for the annual Night to Shine prom hosted by Crossroads North River Church and the Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities in Toronto.

Schoolcraft, now in her fourth year on the JVS faculty, said she hopes the program will continue to evolve. “I would like to see a barbering program or an esthetician program for skin care,” she said. “We are putting out young stylists who are excited, and they are more prepared than ever.”

Seniors Chloe Fisher, Mylie Powley and Joshlyn Roghelia plan to pursue careers after graduation. “It lets you explore and helps get your foot into the field,” said Fisher, a Toronto High School student. “I’ve always loved everything about cosmetology.” Powley, who attends Edison, said the senior year “prepares us more, and we find out what it’s like to work with a real client.” Roghelia, an Indian Creek High School student, added, “Cosmetology has taught us to move forward and prepares us for future careers. I hope to have my own salon.”

Juniors Adriona Famal of Harrison Central High School and Victoria Dear of Toronto share similar goals. “I’ve always loved doing hair and makeup,” Famal said. “We both want to have careers,” Dear said.

Public appointments will be available Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. starting Oct. 1.