Cypress Park High School senior Scarlett Maldonado won Best of Show at the 2026 CFISD District Cosmetology Competition. (Photo by Sama Abudhhir, Cypress Park HS)

By Toluwalase Odewenwa, Cypress Park HS

May 8, 2026—Students from across Cypress-Fairbanks ISD were recognized for their technical skills and professional capabilities during the annual CFISD Cosmetology Competition. The event provided students with the opportunity to demonstrate competencies in haircutting, coloring, nail artistry, barbering, make-up application, braiding and salon presentation. Award recipients represented multiple CFISD campuses and were recognized in a variety of cosmetology categories, reflecting the depth of training and hands-on experience students receive through the district's program.

Scarlett Maldonado of Cypress Park High School earned the Best of Show award for her overall performance during the competition. Cypress Park students earned multiple category awards, including Kevin Tovar Miramontes (Best in Men’s Cut and Color), Alexa Cabrera (Best in Flat Nail Art), Lussianna Gomez Gonzalez (Best in 3D Nail Art), Laura Costero Diaz (Best in Fantasy), Miyah Garcia (Best in Women’s Cut and Color), Serina Garcia (Best in Live Nail Art) and Bryanna Angeles (Best in Live Fantasy Make-up).

Cy-Fair High School award recipients included Victoria Sierra Hernandez (Best in Day/Evening Updo), Mackenzie Curttie (Best in Live Wigs), Emilio Portillo (Best in Live Barbering) and Joselyn Flores (Best in Live 3D Nails).

Jersey Village High School students Genesis Gonzalez (Best in Salon Project) and Luisa Valeria Coreas (Best in Live Special Occasion Make-up) were also recognized.

Additional winners included Audrey Fisher of Bridgeland High School (Best in Hair Braiding) and Jamaya Johnson of Cypress Woods High School (Best in Anything But a Roller).

In addition to competition honors, seven CFISD cosmetology students earned their lash certifications this year, expanding their professional credentials prior to graduation.

According to Darla Drake, Cypress Park cosmetology instructor, the program is designed to prepare students for both certifications and employment opportunities after high school.

“Our students are not joining cosmetology just to learn about hair, skin or nails,” Drake said. “They are learning the technical skills required by the industry, but they are also learning professionalism, client communication and how to build and manage a business.”

Drake also added that earning certifications while still in high school provides students with a pathway directly into the workforce.

“When students graduate with their certification, many are able to secure employment immediately,” Drake said. “The program gives them a head start in building a career, whether they choose to work in a salon or barber shop, pursue advanced training or eventually open their own business.”