Mount Vernon High School cosmetology students give free makeovers to senior citizens

Cosmetology and barbering students at Mount Vernon High School’s Career and Technical Education Department recently partnered with the city’s recreation department to host a makeover day for senior citizens in the community.

The students have been traveling to various elementary schools to offer their services to children, but now, for the first time, they are training their skills on older adults.

The barbering class is taught by Rick Boreland and the cosmetology class is taught by Agnes Taylor. The experience gives students a different perspective than working with young people, including how to work with older adults with respect, according to Taylor.

"So this right here is actually helping them and the community at the same time," she said.

Shyiann Smythe, a junior in the program, was one of the students offering the free haircuts and styling services.

"I enjoy helping people," Smythe said, "and making people beautiful."