I am writing to you to provide support for Cosmetology and Barbering Programs to remain on the HPO List in Philadelphia, allowing students to obtain training and work-related experiences as part of their high school education, tuition free. By providing this opportunity for students at the high school level, our young people obtain the skills needed to obtain a diploma and Cosmetology or Barbering license upon graduation. Considering the School District covers the cost of the training (the equivalent of being awarded a $10,000.00 to $25,000.00+ scholarship), this is a significant financial benefit to families in our community - who are often economically disadvantaged. It is important that a program like this is supported to give our children a chance to use their skills as productive citizens and to provide hope for a fruitful and prosperous future. As a citizen concerned about the future of our youth, the community and the development of our future workforce, I am committed to supporting the HPO petition process by collaborating with District administrators and other industry partners to generate the data and information