The Webster Parish School Board (WPSB) held an open house on November 12 at Harper Pathways to Excellence to showcase its newly opened barbering school. This addition marks the third Jump Start program at the Harper facility, complementing the existing culinary and certified nursing assistant programs.
“If this is not the crown jewel of our program, it must certainly be one of the crown jewels,” said Superintendent Johnny Rowland. “We’re just so proud of this facility. We are truly blessed to be able to offer this to and for our students.” Rowland also credited the school board’s unanimous support and acknowledged the contributions of individuals and organizations involved in the project.
During the open house, attendees toured the facilities and observed students in action. Barbering students demonstrated their skills, CNA students conducted blood pressure measurements, and the culinary class provided a brunch for attendees.
Louisiana’s Jump Start program emphasizes career and technical education (CTE) by requiring students to earn industry-based credentials to graduate. It fosters partnerships between school districts, colleges, and businesses to offer career courses and workplace experiences. The program prepares students with valuable credentials for high-wage jobs and post-secondary education.
Students in 9th and 10th grades focus on core academic courses before selecting a diploma pathway. The Jump Start TOPS Tech Pathway allows students to earn credentials in career fields, while the TOPS University Pathway emphasizes core academic credits with options for earning industry-based certifications.
For more information about the Jump Start program, contact the Webster Parish School Board offices.
