Senior cosmetology students under direction of Ms. Elkins prepare for state board license examinatio

After two years of hard work, Airport and Brookland-Cayce High School cosmetology students are more than ready for their state board license examination to take place on April 23, 2018. Their future careers right after graduation ride on this passing grade.

The cosmetology class is very competitive and hard to get into. There is process of elimination through looking at grades, behavior, and attendance as well as having positive teacher recommendations. Parents, students, and fellow teachers all agree that this course is valuable for many reasons. Not only can students achieve a job out in the workplace, but they also understand the importance of good personal hygiene and how to interact with others through communicative and listening skills.

The most interesting part of the current cosmetology program is the back story. It all started with cosmetology instructor, Sherkeria Elkins. Ever since high school, Ms. Elkins knew she wanted to be a cosmetologist. After completing cosmetology school, she then decided to pursue a teaching degree. For over 18 years, she has taught either high schoolers during the day and/or adults at night. With so much experience, she is definitely the right person for the job. Being relatable as she has walked in the same shoes of the students taking part in this course.

Students begin learning the tricks of the trade in their junior year of high school, starting from braiding and working up to the most advanced of services. During this first year they will work to earn 350 credit hours, a mixture of both academic and cosmetology class hours for being present each day. Once earned, they will begin to receive their first taste of working on people and building up their clientele.

Jala S., one senior cosmetology student, said, “Go in with a good attitude and keep up with what you were taught.”

“Always learn and keep up with the new trends,” Ms. Elkins, proudly stated.

The words Ms. Elkins always reminds us are, “Be patient. It takes time to grow a clientele and find out what works best for you.”

Most students are supportive of their peers and their determination to succeed. They are excited for them when they learn something new and are willing to be their “guinea pig” for new ideas. On the other hand, some students are skeptical of the seniors' abilities to pass the examination with prom being just a few days prior. Ms. Elkins, optimistic in outlook, quotes,“It will not determine the outcome because we are already prepared.” She even proclaimed, “We could use Sunday as a day for a mock practice!”

Before going to the board, cosmetology students must have good attendance and obtain the 1,000 hour requirement for eligibility, meaning they have logged 1,000 hours of practice. The examination will take between 5-6 hours to complete. Students will find out their theory grade, or multiple choice test, straight after it’s over. However, they will not find out their practical, or hands on test, until 2 weeks after it has taken place.

The cosmetology course is for upperclassmen— juniors and seniors. Cost of the course is around $800. This includes your own kit with materials, cape, and state board fee. You can contact selkins@lex2.org or visit your guidance counselor for more information.