Patterson High launches 1st barbering and cosmetology program in Stanislaus
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- Patterson High opened Stanislaus County’s first school-based barbering program.
- Students gain up to 1,100 training hours toward state licensing at no cost.
- Program capacity doubled to 100 students with theory and practical instruction.
A barber pole outside Patterson High School’s former band wing signals it’s officially open — now a space where students can learn to give haircuts and manicures for class credit.
Patterson High unveiled its new Barbering and Cosmetology Building, a fully renovated facility that offers hands-on career training for students pursuing careers in the beauty and grooming industry. It is the only high school in Stanislaus County to provide an on-campus pathway in this field.
The opening was celebrated Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by community members and leaders. Certificates were presented by Stanislaus County Supervisor Channce Condit’s office and Patterson Mayor Michael Clauzel.
Students in the program donned their aprons as guests toured the building and learned more about the program.
“I love the fact that this particular program was really driven a lot by student voices and what they were wanting, and the fact that they are now going to be able to take advantage of a program that exists here in this community,” said Stanislaus County Office of Education Superintendent Scott Kuykendall. “You have some cosmetology schools in Stanislaus County, but of course, it’s in Turlock, it’s in Modesto. It’s not really accessible for students here at Patterson, and now students here have exactly that.”
The Barbering and Cosmetology Pathway was launched to meet strong student interest and a growing local need for skilled professionals in the beauty industry. During informational sessions last year, more than 70 students expressed interest in joining the program.
The idea took shape after Patterson Joint Unified Board President Amanda Lozano shared with Superintendent Reyes Gauna that some students had been giving haircuts in school bathrooms and offering styling or cosmetic tips in informal settings.
Through district funds and grant awards, Patterson High’s one-time band wing has been transformed into a 3,000-square-foot instructional salon built to meet California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology standards.
The new facility features salon and barbering stations, shampooing and coloring areas, a manicure room, a pedicure room, an esthetician room, two classrooms and dedicated office and storage space.
District Coordinator of Facilities Construction Kristi Ventura said the project — completed by Roebbelen Contracting — ranks among the most fulfilling and rewarding of her 20-year career in school construction.
The two-year pathway launches in 11th grade with theory and foundational training, then advances in 12th grade to hands-on experience in the student-run salon. Spanning a two-period block, it allows students to complete the 1,000 to 1,100 hours needed for the California state licensing exam — all at no cost.
Participants also earn dual enrollment credit in business and entrepreneurship through Modesto Junior College. The program is developed in collaboration with local industry professionals serving on an advisory committee, which meets regularly to review curriculum, monitor progress and keep instruction aligned with workforce demands.
Gauna said the pathway officially debuted last year with 50 students and a waitlist. This year, capacity has doubled to 100 students, with each period serving 25 students under the guidance of two instructors. One teaches hands-on practical skills and the other focuses on theory and coursework.
Patterson High senior Ermandrea Osborne joined the program as a “plan B,” giving her a skill she can use right after graduation, as she still plans to attend college.
Her favorite part so far has been seeing the community’s enthusiasm and support. She said students are already taking great care of the facility and are eager to put it to use.
While the program doesn’t issue a license, Osborne said it provides the training needed to be ready for the exam. She’s already gained skills in disinfection and sanitization, haircutting and client communication.
“When we take the test, we’re ready. We have 1,000 hours under our belt. We’re ready. We can get our license right there,” Osborne said.
This story was originally published August 11, 2025 at 2:59 PM.
