Greenville High School seniors in the Cosmetology and Barbering program are closing out their final year with more than just a diploma. This year, students are graduating with professional licenses in hand, real-world experience, and a clear path into the workforce.
A total of 23 cosmetology students and three barbering students have earned their licenses after completing the program’s requirements. Several students have already stepped into local salons and barbershops, gaining hands-on experience and building their client base before graduation.
The program is designed to give students a head start early in high school. Students begin preparing as sophomores through entrepreneurship courses before entering the two-year program during their junior and senior years. Over that time, they complete more than 1,000 hours of training, perform a wide range of services, and pass both written and practical state exams.
Inside the program, students train in a full-service environment that mirrors the real industry. Cosmetology students develop skills in hair color, perms, lashes, and acrylic nails, while barbering students focus on cuts, designs, and straight razor shaves. While each pathway has its specialties, both programs emphasize foundational skills that prepare students for a variety of opportunities after graduation.
For many students, the experience has been just as meaningful personally as it has been professionally.
For Layla Reeves, the program created a sense of connection and shared experience. She described it as “very girlhood,” pointing to the friendships built while working and learning alongside her classmates.
For Julissa Ibarra, earning her license stood out as the most rewarding moment after two years of work. “It just made me feel really proud,” she said. “All the hard work paid off.” She now plans to use her skills to support herself through college by taking on clients and continuing to grow in the field.
Barbering students are seeing that same impact as they step into real shop environments. Bryant Magdaleno, who first became interested in barbering just a few years ago, said the program helped him develop more structured and professional techniques while learning from others in the field.
For Gustavo Soto, the transition is already underway. “I’m just ready to get in the shop, meet new people, and make money,” he said as he looks ahead to continuing his work after graduation.
This year also marks a milestone for the barbering program, which is completing its first full year. The three licensed barbers represent the first group of students to complete the program from start to finish, highlighting its early success and future potential.
Instructor Travis Lynch, who helped launch the barbering program, said watching students reach this point has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. “I’m really proud of them,” he said. “It’s been exciting to see how much they’ve grown.”
The cosmetology program, led by instructor Robbie Hunter, continues to build on a strong foundation. Under his leadership, students have maintained a 100 percent pass rate on licensing exams, reflecting both the structure of the program and the dedication of the students.
As the program continues to grow, it remains a strong example of how Greenville ISD is creating opportunities for students to succeed beyond graduation. By the time these students walk the stage, they are not only ready for what comes next. They are already doing it.
The first licensed barbering students at Greenville High School.
Greenville High School cosmetology seniors celebrating a big year and their professional licenses.