PRJUSD explores new Cosmetology CTE Program at Paso Robles High School

By Camille DeVaul · Fri Oct 17 2025

District board approves architect to begin development of career-focused salon and classroom

PASO ROBLES — During the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) Board meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, district staff introduced plans to expand Career Technical Education (CTE) offerings with the development of a new Cosmetology CTE Program at Paso Robles High School (PRHS). While many program details remain in progress, the board approved moving forward with the architect to design and plan the campus-based salon and classroom, marking the first step toward implementation.

The cosmetology program is expected to include a combination of classroom instruction and practical, hands-on experience in an operational salon setting. Upon completing the coursework and required practical hours, students will be eligible to take the California Cosmetology State Board licensing exam.

Currently, PRJUSD does not offer a district-operated cosmetology program. Labor market data for Human Services shows a projected 15.8% growth in related careers across San Luis Obispo County over the next 10 years. Additionally, a recent student survey with more than 1,800 responses indicated strong interest in cosmetology, highlighting both educational demand and career potential. By offering the program, PRJUSD hopes to provide students opportunities to earn industry-recognized certifications and pursue well-paying careers directly after graduation.

The proposed salon will be located in the Leadership ASB Room at PRHS, which provides easy access from the parking lot and is equipped with an existing restroom, water, and sewer lines. Salon guests will be checked in using the school’s guest system. While open to the public, the salon’s days and hours of operation are still to be determined. Revenue from services will not generate profit for the district but can help offset operational costs and purchase supplies and educational materials. Program and salon names, as well as a full list of services and pricing, will be finalized later.

Trustee Laurene McCoy, who is a cosmetologist herself, said, “I want to make sure that whoever we hire has very capable skills of multicultural everything ... I want it to be very inclusive for all the students who are participating in the program.”

The program will be taught by a teacher with industry experience who meets all CTE credentialing requirements. As the program shapes up, the district will be looking to hire someone for the position.

The estimated cost for development is $505,290, to be funded through LCAP carryover funds. Staff plan to present detailed construction proposals, final location considerations, and the architect’s design plans in the coming months. The goal is for the Cosmetology CTE Program to be ready for students by August 2026, offering a new educational opportunity at PRHS.

Trustees approved the architect with a 5-0 vote — Joel Peterson and Jim Cogan voting no.

The next Paso Robles Joint Unified School District board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 6 p.m.