Houston youth return to school on a positive note

By: Jesse Muhammad
Contributing Writer
African-American News&Issues

HOUSTON- Over 400 Houston boys and girls were treated like kings and queens at a historic institution in Third Ward.
It would be an unforgettable experience that organizers hope set the tone for these young people to have a successful school year.
Franklin Beauty School and the National Empowerment Group, Inc. hosted the 3rd Annual Girls Glam Back to School Empowerment Weekend (Girls Glam 2012) on Sunday, August 26. Sponsored by LaneStaffing, Girls Glam 2012 was held at Franklin Beauty School-South, located on Martin Luther King Drive.
Glam students and their parents started lining up outside the school at 7:00 a.m., an hour before the doors opened. The past two years, Girls Glam Weekend has been free and open to only girls ages 7 to 17.
This year, the event included and offered haircuts for boys. Supporters helped to underwrite beauty products, backpacks and school supplies, in addition to food, and T-shirts.
For over four hours, Franklin Beauty School students did shampoo styles, cornrow braids and haircuts. The children were all smiles as they left their chairs and stylist were just as excited to be a part giving back to the community.
While getting their free makeovers, each participant was required to attend at least three empowerment workshops on networking, being a successful student, leadership, oral hygiene, entrepreneurship, life choices, self-confidence and more. Hard working volunteers made sure every child was serviced.
Additionally, free immunizations were available onsite. There was a live DJ playing motivational music, food was served and entertainment was provided by local talents.
“The day was filled with education and empowerment. The kids had a great time and learned a lot along the way,” said Dr. Wendy Johnson. The Black-owned Franklin Beauty School has been in existence for more than 90 years and ran by the same family. The school was founded in 1915 and was one of the first private cosmetology schools to be licensed in the State of Texas in 1935. The respected institution has a long history of training highly qualified practitioners of cosmetology and the beauty culture arts. Also has opened many doors of opportunity for people in the city.
Presently under the direction of owners Ron Jemison Jr. and Sean Jemison, they got involved with Girls Glam because they believe these young people deserve to look and feel their best.
“Since keeping your hair groomed boosts self-esteem and confidence, we decided the best way to give back to our community was to connect with the students by sharing our gift with them,” said Ron Jemison Jr.
If the excitement following this event is any indication as to how the school year will go for these children, then their parents should expect nothing less than straight A’s and excellent conduct.
For more information on Franklin Beauty call 713-645-9060 or visit their website at www.franklinbeautyschool.com