Career and Technical Education Month : Cosmetology at Sequoyah
Chattanooga, TN- Early Technical College at Sequoyah High School offers an exceptional opportunity for students interested in the beauty industry through its Cosmetology program. The program provides a comprehensive introduction to essential hair, nails, makeup, and skin care skills, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in hair styling, cutting, color, manicuring, pedicuring, facials, waxing, and more. Beyond technical expertise, students also acquire life skills such as communication, self-confidence, and professionalism, preparing them for success in the industry and beyond.
The program is part of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) partnership with Chattanooga State Community College, allowing students to earn dual credit toward the 1,500 hours required to take the state licensing exam. Many students graduate from Sequoyah’s program with over 900 hours, providing them a head start on their future careers, all during high school.
Since joining Sequoyah in 2020, Kristy Needham, one of the program’s instructors, has passionately advocated for her students. Needham began her career at hair school in 1996 and spent over two decades owning her own cosmetology school in Chattanooga. With her background in teaching adults and hands-on salon work, Needham brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to the program.
Needham emphasizes that the skills students learn here extend far beyond technical abilities.
"We teach them how to be employable, communicate effectively, interact with clients, and build self-confidence," she said. "I tell them, you may not do hair behind a chair. You may do something else. But my job is to teach you skills you can use anywhere and in any job." Instructor Hollie LeCroy shared this sentiment saying, "It's not just about Cosmetology here; it's about the whole being. We teach them to get along, listen, and be compassionate."
The program’s impact on students is evident. Needham recalls a message she received from a former student, stating, “This school, this program, and you, have saved me.” “We see kids that need these programs,” Needham said. “These life skills we teach give students hope for a future. And these scholarships allow them to do so much. A lot of students could not pay their way on their own. The things we have on scholarship here, people may pay $20,000+ for at other schools. Here, they’re getting opportunities they may not have otherwise.”
The program has been a revelation for students like Patience Santana, a senior who has always had a passion for hair and makeup. “For me, the college route was heavily pushed– that traditional path and that just wasn’t my thing,” Santana said. “When I found out about Sequoyah and being able to do all these different services for others, I was so intrigued. I was excited to get all of these hours in high school and do it on scholarship. The program has helped me see what I want to do with my future,” she said. “I’m learning everything—hair, nails, facials—and I get to decide what I want to pursue further. I don’t regret a thing.” After graduation, Santana plans to attend Chattanooga State to complete her hours and continue her journey in cosmetology.
Alyssa Stocklem, another senior, is also deeply invested in the program. After three years in Cosmetology at Sequoyah, Stocklem feels prepared for her future. “Everything is so hands-on. The work we do in class really helps, and it’s a lot of fun.” Stocklem plans to finish her education at a local beauty school and hopes to one day open her own salon.
Sequoyah’s Cosmetology program stands out for its dedication to its students and the community. The program often partners with Soddy Daisy Health Care Center to do hair and nails for clients. They also are looking forward to partnering with Soddy Daisy Middle School to do hair and makeup for SDMS’s production of The Wizard of Oz. By taking on these outside clients, students gain field experience, work on their social and communication skills, and get involved within the community.
The Cosmetology program serves as a vital resource for students, offering valuable skills and a pathway to careers in a rapidly growing industry. With programs like this, Early Technical College at Sequoyah High School is helping students take their first steps toward bright, successful futures.
