In Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, a group of teens took part in hands-on cosmetology training during a summer internship program aimed at providing real-world work experience. Among them was 17-year-old Morgan Witherspoon, who spent part of her day styling clients’ hair under the guidance of industry professionals at Branding You Salon.

Witherspoon is one of approximately 1,400 Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students engaged in this year’s six-week summer internship program, which connects teens with employment opportunities at around 300 partner sites spanning restaurants, nonprofits, and small businesses. CPS provides students with stipends of up to $2,000 once placed.

The initiative, now in its expanded phase, aims to expose students to career paths that might not otherwise be accessible. Enrollment has increased in recent years, rising from 1,000 participants in 2022 despite the district facing a budget deficit exceeding $730 million. Funding for the program is derived from a combination of grants, philanthropic donations, and partnerships.

At the salon, interns like Witherspoon not only hone hairstyling techniques such as braiding and hair extension application but also gain insights into salon operations and business management. Witherspoon, a rising senior at Dunbar Vocational Career Academy, expressed an interest in studying business in college to eventually open her own salon.

The program has seen support under Mayor Brandon Johnson, whose Chicago Youth Works initiative hired more than 31,000 teens last year—a 55% increase from 2022. This expansion comes amid ongoing debates in the city regarding youth employment and public safety issues related to large gatherings of teens during summer months. Research indicates that summer employment opportunities can reduce violent crime rates in disadvantaged neighborhoods while enhancing young people’s long-term employment prospects.

Local businesses also benefit from the program. At Tacotlán, a Mexican restaurant in the Hermosa neighborhood, interns assist with order-taking, meal preparation, and customer service during peak summer months. Manager Alexandra Macías noted that the program not only eases the workload but provides interns with practical industry experience. One intern was even hired part-time after completing the program last year.

Seventeen-year-old Santiago Gutiérrez from Prosser Career Academy described the pride his parents felt when he secured the internship, which involves daily preparation of ingredients and kitchen tasks. He commutes to the restaurant by bike and views the internship as an opportunity to refine his skills and work habits.

Back at Branding You Salon, owner Brandy Irons, a former Dunbar cosmetology instructor, supervises interns and emphasizes financial independence through skill development. The interns work weekdays from mid-morning to early afternoon and practice styles on live models on weekends. Irons sees the program as a way for students to gain a competitive edge in hairstyling and earn income.

Among the interns, Rihanna Jackson, also from Dunbar, is pursuing dentistry but values the hands-on experience gained through hairstyling. She plans to use her braiding skills to help fund her education and reduce personal expenses.

Through its diverse offerings and partnerships, the CPS summer internship program continues to provide valuable workforce exposure to students across Chicago, combining practical training with opportunities for financial support and career exploration.