The High School District hosted a grand opening of its student cosmetology salon Oct. 20 at Calhoun High School.
More than 40 students are performing salon services in this brand new, state-of-the-art working salon, dubbed Salon Belle Mer. Highlights include utilizing curriculum to learn fundamentals and prepare for New York State Licensing Exam, which is offered on site.
“This is an exciting time to be a part of this renaissance of the cosmetology program,” said Superintendent Michael Harrington. “You are on a pathway for a career or college; wherever this experience brings you.”
The program is overseen by Assistant Principal Mark Melkonian and instructor Jaime Pendl.
“Cosmetology students will learn state-of-the-art trends in styling, hair coloring, nail enhancement, and skin care and have the opportunity to turn their passion into a lifelong career,” said Melkonian.
This new clinic floor simulates a real salon environment so that students can receive the most up to date training giving them an edge over other beauty school students.
“Many of the students have become employed by local salons already and are building a foundation for a lucrative career while still in high school. It is such a privilege for me to be a part of,” added Pendl.
Esther DiDonna, owner of De La Mer Salon & Spa in Bellmore, has partnered with the district to provide mentorship and help grow the program.
“We share the same core values as this program and are grateful to have this opportunity, DiDonna said.
“We are excited to show you [the students] what opportunities are available in this industry,” added salon manager Kim Horn.
Student Rebecca Rosensweige serves as the program’s operations manager, organizing client appointments and managing outreach of services.
“I really enjoy this aspect of the business and I am good at it,” she said. “I have even created a job sheet for future employment opportunities, supply lists and more that keep the program thriving.”
Juniors and seniors from any high school in the district can apply for the program. They attend daily training at the Calhoun-based salon.
On Thursdays, these cosmetology trainees provide free services to the district’s special education COORE students. Clients — students and staff from within the district — can book discounted services on Fridays. Salon offerings include shampoo, conditioning and scalp massages, blow dry styles, hot iron styles, day time makeup applications, manicures, pedicures and waxing.
Follow the salon’s news via
instagram.com/salon_belle_mer/
The program is hosting a showcase for prospective students on Thursday, Dec. 22. Applications are due by Friday, Jan. 27, 2023 and can be found on the district’s website.
Date Added: 10/25/2022