Clarksville High Cosmetology Student Achieves Dream
The CMCSS mission is to educate and empower students to reach their potential. For Nyla Saines, CHS Class of 2020, her high school experience also empowered her to achieve her dream. Even at an early age, Saines dreamed of working in the beauty industry. Through the Clarksville High CTE cosmetology program, she made her dream a reality.
“Since I was five-years-old I’ve always loved doing people’s hair and nails,” Saines said. “But I struggled with my own self-esteem and confidence issues.”
When Saines first heard about the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, she was interested but unsure. “It’s not easy,” she insisted. “The courses are very hands-on and students have to take the work seriously.” By her junior year, she was certain this was the right decision.
That’s when she was first introduced to a teacher who made a big impact, Laina Shearon. Shearon is the cosmetology teacher at Clarksville High School. Shearon has taught at CHS for four years and is also a licensed cosmetologist.
“Ms. Shearon is one of the most loving and caring people I’ve ever encountered,” said Nyla. Whenever she felt self-doubt creep in, Ms. Shearon was right there to lift her back up. “She always told me to be confident in my work and never give up.”
The hard work paid off. Nyla Saines became the first Tennessee high school student to receive her Cosmetology license through an apprenticeship model, while still a full-time student. “Nyla has always worked so hard and stayed so determined in her journey of obtaining her cosmetology license. It definitely took hard work, perfected skills, and lots of focus to accomplish what she did,” said Ms. Shearon.
In 2020, Saines was licensed by the State Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners as a Cosmetologist.
The CHS cosmetology program uses the apprenticeship model to license students by sending them to take their state board theory exam at 750 hours. This is usually accomplished by the second semester of their junior year. Once they pass this exam, students begin gaining hours by apprenticing under a cosmetology mentor. The mentor must have at least 10 years of licensed experience. Students begin making connections and finding their own options for mentors during their sophomore year as they create their resumes and interview different cosmetologists.
The apprenticeship provides a practical and professional experience as the students work towards completing their 1500 required hours before they are eligible to take the state board practical exam. Students receive official licensure from the State of Tennessee after passing this exam.
MCHS students earn national recognition at FCCLA
Four Montgomery Central High School students did not let the conditions of the pandemic limit their pursuit of excellence. During the national Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) event in July, the students placed in the top three in several categories.
Despite the event moving to a virtual format for both the state level competition in March and nationals in July, the MCHS students pushed on.
The students developed their hard copy portfolios into 100% digital portfolios and presentations. “They were quickly able to master the technology and advance to nationals,” said their club sponsor and MCHS teacher, Maggie Tucker.
During the STAR and competitive events, members are recognized for their proficiency and achievement in chapter and individual projects, leadership skills, and career preparation.
There are more than 30 events in which students can choose to compete.
The MCHS students placed in the following events:
Alex Coy competed in Chapter in Review Portfolio and was awarded a bronze medal.
Juliana Santos and Ashley Griffin competed in Event Management and were awarded a silver medal.
Kristy Long competed in the Teach and Train event and was awarded a gold medal and placed first in the nation in her event category.
TCAT Signing Day
