26-27 Cosmetology Instructor - CTE

Provides high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) instruction that prepares students for postsecondary education, industry-recognized credentials, licensure, and careers in the cosmetology profession. Delivers engaging classroom and laboratory instruction integrating academic, technical, and employability skills while fostering a safe, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment. Develops students' technical proficiency, professionalism, and workplace readiness in accordance with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Career Vocational Technical Education (CVTE) Frameworks. Collaborates with colleagues, industry partners, families, and school staff to support student achievement, career readiness, and successful transition to employment or postsecondary education.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and deliver engaging classroom and laboratory instruction aligned with the Massachusetts DESE CVTE Frameworks and district curriculum.
• Teach cosmetology theory, technical skills, safety practices, and professional standards that prepare students for industry licensure and employment.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that include demonstrations, guided instruction, hands-on learning, assessments, review activities, and differentiated instruction.
• Create and maintain a safe, organized, and productive classroom and salon laboratory environment that promotes student engagement, professionalism, and respect.
• Maintain compliance with all health, sanitation, and safety regulations applicable to cosmetology instruction and laboratory settings.
• Assess student learning using a variety of instructional and performance-based assessment methods and provide timely, constructive feedback.
• Prepare students for the Massachusetts Cosmetology Licensing Examination and employment within the cosmetology industry.
• Continuously evaluate and improve curriculum, instructional practices, equipment, and instructional resources to ensure alignment with current industry standards, emerging technologies, and workforce needs.
• Foster the development of employability skills, including communication, teamwork, professionalism, customer service, problem-solving, and ethical workplace practices.
• Establish and maintain high expectations for student behavior and promote a positive classroom culture that supports learning and mutual respect.
• Maintain accurate and timely student attendance, grades, competency records, and other documentation required by district policy, DESE regulations, and applicable laws.
• Collaborate with academic teachers, counselors, administrators, employers, and community partners to support student success.
• Communicate regularly with students, parents/guardians, and school staff regarding student academic progress, technical skill development, attendance, and behavior.
• Participate in professional development, curriculum development, faculty meetings, advisory committee meetings, and other district initiatives.
• Maintain professional licensure and continue professional growth through industry and educational learning opportunities.
• Supervise students during classroom instruction, laboratory activities, clinical experiences, and other school-sponsored events as assigned.
• Perform other duties consistent with the scope and responsibilities of the position as assigned.

Requirements

• Hold or be eligible to obtain a Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Vocational Technical Teacher License in Cosmetology (License 74). To be eligible for licensure, candidates must possess:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent;
  • A minimum of five (5) years of full-time employment experience directly related to cosmetology;
  • A current Massachusetts Cosmetologist Instructor License;
  • A passing score on both the written and performance examinations in cosmetology; and
  • A passing score on either the Vocational Technical Literacy Skills Test or the Communication and Literacy Skills Test, as required by DESE.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current cosmetology practices, equipment, techniques, and safety standards.
• Prior teaching, mentoring, or training experience is preferred.
• Experience working with high school students or in a Career and Technical Education setting is preferred.

Skills

• Knowledge of cosmetology theory, practices, techniques, sanitation, and safety standards.
• Knowledge of Massachusetts DESE Career Vocational Technical Education (CVTE) Frameworks and industry expectations.
• Ability to provide engaging classroom and hands-on laboratory instruction to diverse learners.
• Ability to differentiate instruction to meet the academic and technical needs of all students.
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to establish positive working relationships with students, families, colleagues, industry partners, and community members.
• Proficiency in instructional technology and educational software.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and meet reporting deadlines.
• Commitment to continuous professional growth and equitable educational practices.

Physical Requirements

• Mobility: Frequent walking, standing, and navigating stairs.
• Lifting/Strength: Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects ranging from 10 to 30 lbs (e.g., books, supplies, equipment).
• Physical Dexterity: Bending, crouching, kneeling, stooping, and reaching to assist students.
• Stationary Tasks: Remaining in a stationary position (sitting/standing) for long periods.

Benefits

Salary and benefits are determined in accordance with the Somerville Educators Union, Unit A collective bargaining agreement and the policies of the Somerville School Committee.

Reports to: The School Building Principal and the Director of the Center for Career and Technical Education.

Position Type: Full Time, Exempt, SEU, Unit A.