The Trump administration is evaluating the status of the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), which oversees approximately 1,300 beauty and cosmetology schools and serves more than 120,000 students. This decision addresses compliance with federal requirements outside of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concerns.
Accreditation and Student Aid
The government’s review is crucial as DOE-approved accreditors enable schools to access federal student aid programs. The DOE noted deficiencies with NACCAS but suggested maintaining its recognition under restrictions and additional monitoring.
NACIQI’s Recommendation
The National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) took a firmer stance in its July meeting, recommending by a 9-3 vote that the department deny NACCAS renewed recognition. This decision could impact students dependent on federal aid for their education.
Student Concerns
Many students, like Aliyah Fernandez and Blythe Fields, rely on financial aid to pursue cosmetology education. Fernandez highlighted the importance of aid in achieving her career goals while being present in her daughter’s life. Fields, an expectant mother, balances education and work, emphasizing the flexibility cosmetology offers, which is vital for raising a child.
“Federal financial aid made this education possible,” Fernandez stated.
Both students have initiated a petition urging the DOE for a monitored improvement period for NACCAS rather than outright denial, allowing the organization to address issues while maintaining accreditor status.
Committee Debate
During NACIQI’s meeting, some members expressed doubts about NACCAS’s ability to resolve compliance issues timely. Michael Poliakoff seconded a motion initiated by Zakiya Smith Ellis to deny renewed recognition to NACCAS, which Smith Ellis argued was given opportunities to correct problems but failed to do so effectively.
Conversely, Robert Eitel, opposing the denial, suggested corrective actions should precede any loss of recognition, considering the risks to schools and students.
Accreditation Practices
The proceeding contrasted with Trump’s executive order directing thorough investigations into whether accreditors impose unlawful discrimination requirements, specifically DEI-related standards.
Fox News Digital contacted Smith Ellis for comments on her supportive stance for denial over corrective measures and her message to concerned students but received no response.
Unrecognized Trades
Fields expressed the opinion that beauty careers are often undervalued compared to male-dominated trades like plumbing and welding.
The White House and involved institutions did not provide comments regarding these proceedings.
Jasmine Baehr reports on political, military, legal debates, and cultural issues for Fox News Digital.