Cosmetology, a career technology education (CTE) class, has had several successes this semester and placed in competitions at the State Fair. 

“This year we have had so many great accomplishments,” cosmetology teacher Tammy Brown said. “Students placed in every competition we entered at the State Fair of Virginia this year.”

At the State Fair Cosmetology Competition, students entered in the fantasy mannequin combout where they style hair on a mannequin; the fantasy nails competition where they create fantasy themed nails on a student; and the total fantasy look and total look competitions where a student models hair, makeup, and an outfit all designed by the fellow students. 

“Overall, the competition went well, and the students competed successfully, demonstrating everything they had practiced beforehand,” Brown said. “My students won first place in the ‘Total Look Competition.’”

Apart from competing, cosmetology often provides services outside of the school. This helps the students get community service hours in, and also practice their cosmetic skills on others.

“Students actively engage with the community by volunteering their beauty services at the Betty Queen Center and the Mary Williams Center each year,” Brown said.

When the students are not preparing for a competition or show, they are working to prepare for the next step after graduating from high school.

“My goals for my students are to help all students obtain their state license in cosmetology and barbering, find jobs within the community, and continue to achieve greatness,” Brown said.

Cosmetology is a two-block class when the students practice their skills and earn the required hours for their state cosmetology license.

“On a normal day of cosmetology, we first get to class and set up our station to get ready to do what we’re currently working on,” junior Charlee Davis said. “What we work on each day can vary from braiding or extensions to highlighting or foiling.”

Once the students earn their state license in cosmetology, they are then able to work professionally in the cosmetology field and continue perfecting their skills.

“I plan to work in the cosmetology field once I get my license this year and become a hairstylist,” junior Chloe Cajigas said.

Currently, the students are preparing and strengthening their skills for their upcoming fashion show.

“The cosmetology students are planning a Hair and Fashion Show on December 14 at 3:00 pm in the Alan Jackson Theater,” Brown said. “This show will showcase the latest fashions and hairstyles.”