High School Cosmetology Program Gets 'Model' Recognition

MASTIC BEACH, NY — A local high school's cosmetology program has gotten a nod of high praise and recognition.

The William Floyd High School Cosmetology program recently held a banner unveiling ceremony to celebrate a “Model School” designation bestowed upon the program by the Career and Technical Education Technical Assistance Center of New York, an honor reserved for the best CTE programs in New York State, school officials said.

William Floyd Cosmetology was the only program on Long Island to receive the designation.

“This honor is due to the hard work and efforts of several people including Wendy Joyce and Annie Bopp, who work with the students every day to develop a quality program,” said Christine Rosado, director of secondary education and STEM, or science, technology, engineering and mathematics, at the William Floyd School District.

The two-year program, open to juniors and seniors, provides an entrepreneurial environment where students learn the skills required to become licensed cosmetologists — and how to operate businesses. The Virtual Enterprise experience offers skills that help students throughout future careers. After successful completion of the cosmetology program, students have the 1,000 hours necessary to qualify for NYS licensure, district officials said.

An advisory board of representative from businesses in the community, as well as the opportunities presented to students through trainings and demonstrations hosted by local salon professionals, help to foster community connections, officials said.

Students regularly take top awards at the SkillsUSA competitions, including last year, which saw two William Floyd students take home first- and second-place in the cosmetology category. Additionally, an articulation agreement with SUNY Farmingdale provides students pursuing a post-secondary education with the opportunity to earn three college credits.

“The development of this comprehensive CTE-approved cosmetology program in William Floyd High School is making a difference,” said Ellen Palazzo, Long Island field associate, CTE TAC. “It has encouraged students to actively explore career pathways, develop their passions and talents, promoted success in high school, build professional skills, and positioned dozens to earn a licensure and entry to career success. Simultaneously, this program has served to enrich the school culture and heighten community connections.”

Rosado added: “NYS CTE Model Programs are considered to be the best of the best. As a CTE Model Program, the William Floyd Cosmetology program will serve as an example for other schools of what a high-quality CTE program looks like.”

Patch photo courtesy William Floyd School District.