Alice High Cosmetology Program Trains Licensed Workers, Lowers Student Debt

Alice High School’s cosmetology program, in place since the 1970s, continued to produce fully licensed professionals while they were still students, preparing young people for immediate employment and reducing the financial barriers often associated with private cosmetology schools. The curriculum focused on infection control, chemical safety, client relations and professionalism, and combined classroom instruction with real world practice that let graduates meet state licensing requirements before graduation.

Students profiled in recent coverage included Allie Saenz and Annalee Trevino, who benefited from the licensing pathway and began pursuing work opportunities without the additional cost of private training. Instructors reported that over the last two years more students have opted to enter the workforce directly after graduation, while others have chosen to continue cosmetology education at local community colleges to expand their skills. That mix of outcomes points to both immediate economic opportunity and pathways for career advancement.

The program has implications beyond employment. Training in infection control and chemical safety helps protect clients and workers from preventable harms, from occupational exposures to transmission of skin or nail infections. For a largely rural county, having licensed practitioners trained with public health standards strengthens community health infrastructure and supports small businesses that rely on skilled staffing.

Economic equity emerged as a central benefit. Graduates save on tuition costs and may avoid taking on consumer debt, improving financial stability for young adults and their families in Jim Wells County. Local salons and beauty businesses benefit from a pipeline of licensed workers who can begin serving customers immediately. Students who pursue additional college training contribute to a broader skilled workforce and create local pathways to higher earning potential.

The continued success of the cosmetology program highlights the role of high school career and technical education in workforce development and social mobility. As community leaders consider investments in education and economic development, sustaining programs that combine job readiness, health and safety training, and affordable credentialing will be important for strengthening the county’s workforce and expanding opportunity for young people.