Whitley County Consolidated Schools and Columbia City High School congratulate Pheonix Coon as the first student to earn her cosmetology license before her high school graduation.
Pheonix Coon has earned her cosmetology license with 1,500 hours of training and passed the Indiana state cosmetology licensing exam months before she graduates from Columbia City High School through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program offered at Creations Beauty School.
As a student, Coon admits cosmetology wasn’t a career she was initially interested in.
“I started at a local salon as a receptionist because they offered the flexibility I needed as a student but I wasn’t really interested in it as a career. After being around the girls for three years and seeing what they do, I took this opportunity when it came up and I’m so glad I did,” said Pheonix Coon, Columbia City High School senior.
Partnered with Creations Beauty School in Huntington, CCHS offers Cosmetology as a two-year program for juniors and seniors who are interested in the career.
“The CCHS Cosmetology program has been in development for a number of years. It is a difficult program to launch due to equipment costs and the number of hours required. I am thankful to Creations Beauty School for their support and opportunity for this partnership at a location close to Columbia City,” said Jennifer Reiff, WCCS Career and Technical Education Director.
While at Creations Beauty School, students are immersed in top-notch education that empowers students with comprehensive knowledge in all facets of the beauty industry with classroom instruction and real client experiences.
CCHS has partnered with Creation Beauty School since the 2023/2024 school year, making Pheonix’s class the first to gain the experience through this partnership.
“If you’re considering this CTE opportunity just do it. Take advantage of the opportunities now when you have the time instead of working and trying to fully provide for yourself. If it’s not something you are into, stay consistent and finish the program out,” is the advice Pheonix gave to fellow classmates and CCHS students.
It was her mindset and commitment that helped Pheonix complete her 1,500 hours while still in school. She worked summer hours and during breaks to make all of it happen.
“I took schooling as I would a job. If I wanted to go on a trip, I made my schedule and made sure I had enough hours in to be able to enjoy the trip. As far as hours when school is in, it can be tricky. I took advantage of summer break, fall break and Christmas break hours and worked on days when school would close but the salon wouldn’t,” Pheonix said.
Creations Beauty School owner and instructor, Donna Stoffel said she’s never met a more determined student.
“This girl knew what she wanted and worked hard. I’ve never met a more goal-orientated person. We are so proud of Pheonix and know she will do great things in any salon. She would sit in here and literally plan out the number of services she would do in a day and always had a plan B,” Stoffel said.
“I had a lot of fun and I’m thankful for the opportunity I was provided. I couldn’t have been able to do this without Donna, Jodi, my classmates, friends and family. Creations Beauty School was great and very helpful,” Pheonix said.
She plans to work at a salon in Columbia City and graduates in June 2025. Congratulations, Pheonix!
The Cosmetology program is available to junior and senior students at CCHS. To learn more about the program and other CTE opportunities visit wccsonline.com.
# # #
About Whitley County Consolidated Schools
Whitley County Consolidated Schools (WCCS) is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that empowers all students to achieve their full potential. Serving Columbia City and surrounding communities, WCCS believes in fostering a learning environment that promotes academic excellence, personal growth, and character development. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration, our district offers a diverse curriculum, dedicated educators, and state-of-the-art facilities designed to inspire and engage every learner. Through partnerships with families and the community, WCCS strives to prepare students for success in a rapidly changing world. For more information about our schools, programs, and initiatives, visit us at [www.wccsonline.com](https://www.wccsonline.com).
Media Contact
Dr. Laura McDermott, WCCS Superintendent mcdermottla@wccsonline.com
Kennedy Saggars, WCCS Marketing Director saggarskt@wccsonline.com