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Board discusses exploratory cosmetology program at Wetzel Tech; Tyler County offers to share costs
Summary
Board members discussed exploratory planning for a cosmetology program at Wetzel Tech, including state-hours requirements (discussion of a 1,000-hour hair certification path vs. full 1,800-hour cosmetology), space and plumbing/electrical needs in a former bus-garage building, and a proposal from Tyler County to cost-share seats; superintendent said the effort remains investigatory and not likely for fall 2026.
The board discussed an exploratory cosmetology program at the Wetzel Tech center. Mrs. Porter said the district is "only in the investigative stages" and that the state has adjusted hour requirements discussed by staff — noting conversation that a full cosmetology program could require more hours while a 1,000-hour path may allow students to be certified in hair-related work. "There's interest," Porter said, but she cautioned the board that the district must be sure any program offered in high school would allow students to graduate certified and that space, plumbing and sewage capacity must be evaluated before proceeding.
Mr. Kimble (Wetzel Tech) and facilities staff described options for repurposing part of a former temporary bus garage to create separate washing stations and classroom space; the work would need plumbing and some electrical upgrades. Jamie (facilities lead) is evaluating whether in-house maintenance staff can complete renovations or whether outside work is required. Tyler County has offered to enter a memorandum of understanding to pay half the cost in return for half the seats, which Porter said is a potential path to shared capacity.
Cost and timing: staff said there are rudimentary per-student cost estimates (supplies, mannequins and equipment) and noted the program is unlikely to start in fall 2026 because of construction and relocation work already underway. The board discussed ensuring graduates receive meaningful credentials and the feasibility of offering hair certification versus a full cosmetology suite (nails, facials) depending on hours and scheduling across junior and senior years.
