Faces of GNBVT- Polly Ross

Meet Mrs. Polly Ross, a cosmetology shop teacher. She has been working at Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School for 4 years, starting in 2018.

She attended New Bedford High School. She knew her aspiration would be to take on the world as a master colorist in the cosmetology industry. She has been in the cosmetology industry as a salon owner and stylist for 31 continuous years. She decided to become a shop teacher because she wanted to share her knowledge and the passion she has for the craft of hairdressing. It’s an industry that embraces the up-and-comers and celebrates the achievements of stylists. It’s also an industry where education is key. “When my student’s dream is to be a hairstylist, I can help them achieve their goal and dream, it is one of the most rewarding things I can do as a shop teacher,” she explained.

She teaches juniors, and seniors, focusing on State Board Preparation for the senior class. She prepares her students through consistent training and exposing them to the latest industry trends. “I hope my students take away from my class is the ability to dream and achieve their goals no matter what comes their way,” she mentioned. Since her first day as a shop teacher, Guy Shepherd has guided her and is someone who she sees as her mentor. He is always open to exploring new ideas for the cosmetology department. Her advice to first-year teachers would be that it gets better with each year. Outside of teaching, she spends time with her family, enjoys painting, and loves to travel during the summer break if she is able to.

Article and Picture by: Ari Ponte, Senior Media Technology