Richardson ISD celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the Wildcat Salon powered by TONI&GUY and The Wildcat Wash & Care at Lake Highlands High School, two new spaces where students put their skills and interests to the test while gaining hands-on experience in their fields of choice.
The spaces look less like a classroom and more like high-end retail spaces, designed to give students a feel for what their future could really look like, using professional-quality equipment and working with real clients. The power of real spaces brings the skills they learn to a new level. Superintendent Branum emphasizes, “We have a commitment in Richardson ISD that not only creates pathways for students, learning all the skills that are needed to thrive in that industry, but also to what we know our students need to actually be successful is that graduate profile, those soft skills. How do we make sure we’re communicating? What does customer service look like? How do we work together? How do we think about the ‘we’ before ‘me’?” It comes down to providing opportunities that build life skills beyond technique so students can thrive in any chosen career path.
Through the new partnership with TONI&GUY, the Wildcat Salon introduces professional cosmetology training to students, using the same curriculum as what the global franchise uses for professionals. During the ribbon-cutting, TONI&GUY CEO Zak Mascolo, addressed the students and shared, “We’re giving you the tools and the skill set to go into the workforce, to go into any salon, and take your TONI&GUY diploma with your cosmetology license, and they will welcome you in.” The TONI&GUY branded salon is one of two in the district. The second location at Berkner High School will have its ribbon cutting later this month.
In addition, students in the Animal Science pathway now have a place to put their love of animals into practice! At The Wildcat Wash & Care, students can get up close and personal with their canine clients and provide dog grooming services and daycare, with additional services like from bathing to nail cutting and more.
Community members can book a salon appointment through the Wildcat Salon booking portal which includes haircuts, styling and color, as well as nails and waxing. You can also book pet services on the Wildcat Wash & Care site.
Whether students plan to enter the workforce, continue their education or pursue specialized training after graduation, RISD’s Career and Technical Education programs help them build a foundation and soft skills for their next steps.
Businesses interested in partnering with RISD to make an impact on our students’ future can complete this form.
