All ten seniors in the Mount Pleasant High School Cosmetology II class officially became certified licensed cosmetologists before their high school graduation. Even more impressively, they are the first high school group in Texas to complete virtual testing as a group at their own school!

“This milestone was made possible through months of hard work and preparation and with the support and approval of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation,” said MPHS Cosmetology instructor, Aleshia Rivera. “Typically, our students must wait until mid-June to test due to limited availability, but thanks to this innovative opportunity, they have reached certification before walking the stage! This is truly a proud moment for our program, school, and community. Congratulations again to these trailblazing young professionals — your dedication and determination have made history!”

MPHS offers a three-year, comprehensive cosmetology program. Sophomores can begin the program in Introduction to Cosmetology which explores the history of cosmetology, rules and regulations from Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, general sciences, skin care and business skills. Juniors in Cosmetology I focus on the study of hair, skin, nails and their related care. Students develop technical skills and knowledge in hair color and chemical texture services as well as hair design and haircutting. Cosmetology II is the final year of the state licensed Cosmetology program. Students study and practice in a salon lab setting, using mannequins, each other and the public as clientele for skill development. The program emphasizes advanced training and techniques in cosmetology, in addition to preparing students to take the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation Cosmetology Exam.

For more information on the Mount Pleasant High School Cosmetology program, contact the MPHS Career and Technical Education Department at 903-575-2020 or visit their website at https://www.mpisd.net/mphs/mphs-cosmetology/.

Photo: The 2025 MPHS licensed cosmetologists (L to R) Bryanna Nava, Jennifer Peña, Raquel Martinez, Yoselin Lopez, Vanessa Ramirez, Tania Rangel, Instructor Aleshia Rivera, Amy Carrillo, Perla Gaytan, Dori Macedo, Lesly Canada