How to Graduate the Most Hirable Students in the World
10 Tips for a Holistic Approach to Education
In our recent Qnity Camp series, Danielle Markley, owner of Hays Academy of Hair Design, shares her inspiring journey and the impactful financial literacy program she has implemented at her schools. If you’re looking for impactful ways to equip students with essential financial skills that will help them thrive in the beauty and wellness industry, here are ten ways to get started:
1. Have a Vision.
Danielle Markley shared the vision statement of Hays Academy: "To graduate the most hireable, financially responsible students in the world." This vision has been a driving force for over 15 years, emphasizing the importance of financial education alongside technical skills in cosmetology. If you haven’t put your vision into words yet, now’s the time!
2. Implement Financial Literacy from Day One.
At Hays Academy, financial literacy is introduced right from orientation. Danielle highlighted the integration of the MONEY EDU program, a comprehensive financial literacy curriculum designed for students pursuing careers in beauty and wellness. The program is structured into modules to ensure students grasp essential financial concepts throughout their education.
3. Introduce the Basics.
In the initial 11 weeks, students at Hays Academy undergo a basics program where they learn core skills and start with three key financial modules in our MONEY EDU curriculum:
Money Mindset: Cultivating a positive and proactive attitude towards money.
Money Borrowed: Understanding student loans and borrowing responsibly.
Money Plan: Developing a personal financial plan to manage their finances effectively.
4. Level Up.
As students progress to the student salon floor, typically in the middle of their program, they tackle the following modules:
Money In: Strategies for earning and maximizing income.
Money Out: Managing expenses and budgeting.
Money Saved: Importance and methods of saving money for future financial stability.
5. Prepare Students for Graduation.
Approximately six weeks before graduation, students focus on the final modules in MONEY EDU:
Money Taxes: Navigating taxes and understanding tax obligations.
Money Success: Long-term financial planning and achieving financial goals.
6. Get Staff Engaged.
Danielle emphasized the critical role of staff engagement in the successful implementation of the financial literacy program. By ensuring that educators are enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the content, students are more likely to absorb and apply the lessons.
7. Overcome Industry Stereotypes.
Reflecting on her journey, Danielle recounted how she defied industry stereotypes and pursued her passion for cosmetology despite being advised against it. Her determination to empower others in similar situations inspired her to co-own Hays Academy and advocate for comprehensive financial education.
8. Address Beauty School Deserts.
Danielle and her sister recognized the need for accessible cosmetology education in rural areas. By establishing campuses in Hays and Salina, Kansas, they provide opportunities for students who might otherwise face significant barriers to entering the industry.
9. Implement Continuous Improvement and Adaptation.
Danielle shared that Hays Academy continuously evaluates and adapts its curriculum to ensure it meets the evolving needs of students. She advises other school owners to be open to change and to replace outdated programs with more effective solutions where needed.
10. Partner with a Financial Education Provider.
Danielle praised the support she’s received from Qnity, particularly highlighting the role of our customer success team in facilitating smooth implementation and ongoing assistance. This partnership has been instrumental in providing Hays Academy with the tools and resources needed to successfully integrate financial literacy into their curriculum.
It’s evident that Danielle Markley and Hays Academy are dedicated to a holistic approach to education. By combining technical skills with financial literacy, they are setting a new standard in the beauty and wellness industry, ensuring their graduates are not only skilled, but also financially savvy and prepared for long-term success.
