First cohort graduates from Gateways Cosmetology Program

In the fall of 2023, Springfield Public Schools (SPS) welcomed the very first cohort of students into their Career and Technical Education (CTE) Cosmetology program—a first of its kind in the District and in Lane County. After nearly two years of classes, visits to local businesses, product demos and training, the first cohort of cosmetology students at Gateways High School (GHS) is graduating this June.

Eight students from the first cohort have completed all of their trainings and have met requirements for graduation.

One of those graduates is 18-year-old Josie Grace Larson, who chose a focus on hair styling. The choice was somewhat clear for her from the beginning, since her mother is Renee Larson, co-owner and founder of Moss Hair Studio in Eugene. Despite having her family’s support and the possibility to work with her mother, Josie has already secured a job as a full-time hairstylist for Aura, a local luxury hair salon.

“I want to branch-off and be my own person and work at a different salon for a while. I am ready to go out into the world,” said Larson. “I want to eventually get a business degree and when my mom decides to retire, I would definitely want to own Moss and make it my business.”

For hairstyling graduate Suleima Ramirez Galves, completing the cosmetology program and graduating high school are achievements she has worked hard to enjoy. Suleima is the youngest of five siblings and migrated from Guatemala four years ago. She applied for the cosmetology program while still enrolled in English Language Development courses.

“I am proud of myself, for the things I have achieved. Finishing feels bittersweet. I am a little nervous about the state test, but I am confident I am going to pass,” said Ramirez. “I want to own my own salon and help train other LatinX people—no matter their age or background. I want to help others achieve their dreams.”

Jayden Conklin is the only graduate with a focus on aesthetics and skincare. Conklin learned of the program thanks to a flyer her mom found in Springfield High School. Conklin immediately applied and was drawn to skincare because of her own struggles with her own skin.

“I'm really excited to be able to go out and do my own thing and show that I'm skilled and I know what I'm doing,” said Conklin. “I’m going to miss everyone, but I know I’ll make new friends and go further in my career”

Jayden has secured a partnership with Dermatologica, an American luxury brand specializing in skincare and facial products. After graduation, Jayden plans to take several business courses in hope to one day own her own salon.

“I feel very fortunate to have helped support and grow this amazing program,” said Shirley Arnett, GHS cosmetology teacher. “Making a difference in these students lives and future careers is what it's all about. To know that I have poured out my heart, talents, experience and love for the industry into these students and they have truly received it, is so rewarding. I can speak with confidence that they will be successful in their field of practice.”

A second cohort of eight students has begun training, aided considerably by the outgoing class. Unlike the graduating seniors who started without a proper studio, the new class of students has enjoyed a fully furnished studio lab, the support of peer mentors and a steady clientele.

The two-year Cosmetology Program at Gateways High School (the fourth such CTE offering in the state and only the second housed within a high school), which was partially funded by federal grants, provides students with the education and practical hours to prepare them to sit the state board exam upon high school graduation.

In the first half of the first year, cosmetology program students chose a field of practice on which to focus: hair design, barbering, esthetics or nails. Classroom instruction in the basic concepts of the science of cosmetology and design follow, all while students continue their regular high school curriculum classes as students of Gateways High School.

For more information or to apply, visit the GHS Cosmetology Program webpage.

Pictured above is Cosmetology Teacher, Shirley Arnett (sitting) surrounded by seven of the cosmetology program graduates.