Homestead High Students Explore Building Trades, Cosmetology and Theater

Homestead Senior High School students are developing skills in construction, exploring cosmetology careers and preparing for theater performances through programs that offer hands-on learning.

Andy Fernandez, the school’s new building trades and construction teacher, wants to share his enthusiasm for the field while helping students prepare for opportunities after graduation.

His beginning students are learning to use bandsaws and other tools to create projects from wood. Safety is a central part of their training.

Fernandez said more young people are needed in the building trades as experienced workers approach retirement. Students who develop construction skills, he said, will have opportunities to pursue careers in the industry.

As students advance to the program’s second level, they will study carpentry, plumbing, electronics and masonry. Plans include building a small house, learning advanced safety procedures and pursuing certifications in carpentry and other construction fields.

Visits to construction companies and job sites will help students see how their classroom lessons apply to the workplace.

“I want them to go to job sites and see people actually doing construction work. I also want them to get hands on experience,” Fernandez said.

During a recent classroom visit, students were studying construction and using saws to work with wood. Fernandez also teaches them to clean work areas and repair items.

When he took over the program, he collected power saws from other schools for students to use on projects. He also puts his skills to work making repairs around campus.

“My day starts at about 6:00 a.m. and ends at about 7:00 p.m. because after class I am doing repair work around the school. I have students who want to help me and eventually I will give them more responsibility,” he said.

As students gain skills, Fernandez hopes to connect them with apprenticeships.

“I am looking for opportunities to help them meet with people who can help them get hands on training and apprenticeships. I know there are opportunities for these students if they can gain construction skills,” he said.

Student Irving Marshall said he enjoys learning about building and construction.

Students interested in barbering and cosmetology will have another opportunity beginning in November.

The school’s cosmetology club will serve 11th- and 12th-graders through May 2027, according to Assistant Principal Ann Jordan. The program includes 14 after-school sessions lasting 90 minutes each. Students must attend six sessions to complete it.

Participants will practice techniques using mannequins and practice hands, build a skills portfolio and explore further training at South Dade Technical College and local cosmetology schools. Jordan said students will also be able to pursue paid internship opportunities.

Instruction will introduce barbering, hair care and nail services, including sanitation, disinfection, safe tool use and professional expectations. Students will learn about manicures, pedicures, artificial nails and nail art, along with shampooing, scalp care, hair shaping, styling and braiding.

All tools, mannequins and materials will be provided. There will be no live client services or chemical services performed on students.

Participants will have an opportunity to earn a BARBICIDE infection-control credential and learn about the additional training required to pursue barbering or cosmetology licenses.

Guest professionals will lead demonstrations, while site visits will allow students to observe working shops, client interactions and daily operations.

Jordan said the school is excited to offer students an opportunity to explore those careers.

Homestead High’s drama students are also preparing for a busy year.

Teacher Monica Velez is working with students on voice, dance and singing. Students in the honors program participate in Thespian Troupe 1710.

In December, the theater program plans to present short plays, solos, monologues and one-act performances. A larger play is planned for the spring, and students will also attend a performance at the Seminole Theatre.

The drama students recently participated in the school’s Hispanic heritage celebration, contributing songs, dances and other presentations.

Velez said the students are dedicated to drama and are working hard to present high-quality shows.