Beautiful Day to Open a Salon School: Ferndale Welcomes P & A Scholars
(C. Proxmire, Ferndale 115 News, Aug. 17, 2012)
One of Ferndale’s largest ribbon cutting ceremonies took place on Aug. 16 as well-wishers packed the new P&A Scholars Beauty School at 22925 Woodward.
The Ferndale location compliments their other locations in Redford and Detroit. Since Preston and Anna Jackson (P & A) first started their Beauty School in Detroit in 1984, they have had several campuses, including a missionary beauty school in Togo West Africa. Mrs. Jackson taught the women of Togo, Ghana and Congo the skills needed to become beauticians. The Jackson family’s commitment to education and career building has been the motivation for their growth, and now with their children are carrying the tradition by serving as co-owners.
The name is explained on the P & A Scholars website: “Students at P&A Scholars are referred to as ‘scholars’ because they participate in courses focusing on everything from advanced hands-on training to techniques geared towards developing the ultimate certified cosmetology professional. Scholars are provided with computer programs that help enhance training and studying skills. The software coordinates with daily lesson plans, enhancing the applied learning experience. P&A Scholars also prides itself on providing continued advanced education for the team and graduates. Current students and graduates have the opportunity to participate in monthly seminars and graduate forums that help build networking skills; allowing graduates and scholars to bond while sharing ideas and participating in hands-on workshop.”
The location at 22952 Woodward formally had housed the Virginia Farrell Beauty School. Though the businesses may sound similar, the owners of P&A Scholars have completely renovated and beautified the property, and their professionalism and list of services cannot compare.
The lobby floor is speckled purple, black and silver and the color scheme flows throughout the multiple classrooms and service areas. The large windows showcase the beauty transformations happening inside, and an open reception area with comfortable seating welcomes visitors. A display case of whimsical mannequin heads showcases the creativity of the beauticians that are learning there.
LaTonya Boyd is a student at P & A Scholars. “I love it here. It’s a tried and true company that is spreading. Boyd said she’s been braiding hair since she was fourteen. “I’ve been doing it this long, I may as well get my certificate and make some money at it.” She is near the end of her six months’ worth of training, and was the proud tour guide for the grand opening event.
Santiricca Lawton is another student excited about the training she receives. “It’s not like the least expensive schools where they just get people certified, the instructors really know what they’re doing and make sure you learn,” she said.
“Hair is my world,” Lawton said. “I love to do hair and make people feel good. When you look beautiful you feel beautiful.”
Lawton came from the Redford campus and said she’s impressed with Ferndale so far. “Look at this neighborhood, this whole area,” she said. “And people have been so welcoming. People stop in to wish us well, the Chamber, the City. It’s nice.”
In addition to classes, P & A Scholars has low-cost beauty services provided by students under supervision. Services include hairstyle services, braids, hair additions, hair color, skincare, waxing chemical texturizers, and hand and foot care. They also do Beauty Parties including Prom Parties, Graduation Celebrations, Stress Relief Parties, Office Retreat Parties, Bachelorette Parties, Princess Parties and more. To find out more about their classes or their services, check out their website at www.PandAScholars.com.
