Mount Pleasant High School Cosmetology instructor, Aleshia Rivera-Palomino, was recently honored with the TEACH. SHARE. INSPIRE. award from the Texas Cosmetology Educators.

At the awards presentation, Rivera-Palomino was introduced with, “The 2023 Texas Cosmetology Educators TEACH. SHARE. INSPIRE. award honors a teacher who demonstrates excellence in every sense of the word. The 2023 awardee is a remarkable educator who not only excels at imparting knowledge to all students, but also possesses an uncanny willingness and ability to share her passion for education with other teachers. Her dedication to the craft of teaching is truly inspiring, as she goes above and beyond to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment. Through her unwavering commitment, she has not only shaped the minds of countless students but has also left an indelible mark on the hearts of those she’s touched. This award is a testament to her outstanding contributions and the lasting impact she has made on the lives of students and colleagues alike. We are honored to recognize this exceptional teacher for her outstanding dedication and invaluable contributions to education. The 2023 TEACH.SHARE.INSPIRE awardee is Mrs. Aleshia Rivera-Palomino from Mount Pleasant ISD.”

Rivera–Palomino draws upon over 30 years in the beauty industry, beginning her career as a cosmetologist. After accumulating several years of stylist and salon management experience she combined her passion for cosmetology and education. After earning her cosmetology instructor license at Northeast Texas Community College in Mount Pleasant, she continued her education at the University of Texas at Tyler, receiving her teaching certification. Rivera-Palomino is beginning her eighteenth year as a cosmetology instructor at Mount Pleasant High School. Her approach is one that encompasses the desire to give back to the cosmetology profession and make a positive impact on future cosmetologists. She has previously served as District 5 Director and President of the Texas Industrial Vocational

Association (TIVA), held the position of President of Cosmetology Instructors of Public Schools (CIPS), and served as the honorary professional workforce development society President known as Iota Lambda Sigma (ILS). She served as an Advisory Board member for the Cosmetology Advisory Board of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) for 12 years and held the position of Presiding Officer for two, as well as being selected by the Career and Technical Director to be part of the high school Ambassador program. In addition, she is a member of the Foundation for Advancement of Career and Technical Education (FACTED) and assists on the executive board. Rivera-Palomino currently serves as an Industry Advisory Council Member for the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and holds a cosmetology advisory board position at Northeast Texas Community College. Outside of work she volunteers her experience and skills to patients and survivors of cancer. Using her platform, she teaches her students to provide services for battered women, special needs children, and the elderly at no cost. Rivera-Palomino continues to provide leadership, safety, support, advocacy, and oversight of cosmetology in the public education system and industry.

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MPHS Cosmetology instructor, Aleshia Rivera-Palomino, with her TEACH. SHARE. INSPIRE. award