Ms. “D” (Lisa D. Pearce) comes from a business management background. After becoming a single parent, she decided she needed a new career path that would give her more flexibility to raise her young daughter. So she enrolled in the Sonora High School Cosmetology Program, not really knowing if it was the right “fit” for her. “I did not think I was artistically inclined, but found I really enjoyed what I was doing”, Pearce said. Nearly twenty years later, and now a credentialed Cosmetology Instructor for the past 8 years. Pearce says, “After years behind the chair, I still love my job and my profession, how many people can say that!” Pearce added, “I love to share the things I have learned over the years with the students. Teaching has given me renewed passion and an outlet to give back to the profession that has done so much for me.”

Kelli Slater is a graduate of Sonora High Cosmetology Program. She has worked as a stylist/manicurist for over 20 years at a local salon. Kelli continues to bring “real life” experience to her students since she is still currently working behind the chair on a weekly basis. Her career is her passion, with an emphasis on hair color, cutting and waxing. She has attended many advanced level continuing education workshops and is passionate about the effect it has on beginning stylist as well as the seasoned stylist.
Kelli is married with two your children and a lifelong Tuolumne County resident. She enjoys traveling camping, atv’s and bike riding with her spare time. One of her favorite motto’s is “Nobody is ever born a great anything. People learn and develop skills.” She believes wholeheartedly in the Sonora High Cosmetology Program because of all the opportunities it has provided for her.