Small talk among cosmetologists and their clients is an
everyday occurrence, helping pass the time during a perm, coloring or pedicure. In fact, out of a list of “10 Customer Service Tips Cosmetology Students Need to Remember,” the Top 3 include greeting, conversing with and listening to their clients. But are hairdressers really prepared for what they might hear? And what if the conversation leads to signs that the client is a victim of spousal abuse?

As the Beaumont Independent School District Board of Trustees prepares for its final budget meeting before adopting a fiscal plan for the coming school year, the agency is looking to fill a deficiency in the millions. Prior budget meetings have failed to elicit a meeting of the minds on how to cover the anticipated shortfall.

Meeting 1 – Bare bones