Louisville Beauty Academy, a Kentucky State-Licensed and State-Accredited beauty college, is dedicated to ensuring our students stay informed and prepared for success. We consistently keep up-to-date with the latest industry standards, regulations, and testing protocols to provide our students with the best possible resources. As of the Beauty Instructor Annual PSI Meeting held on November 12, 2024, we are pleased to share the latest and greatest updates. These new options from the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology, in partnership with PSI, reflect significant improvements in testing accessibility and support, designed to help our students excel in their licensing exams. Here’s everything you need to know about these exciting changes.
PSI Testing Enhancements Now Available for Kentucky Beauty Industry Professionals: On-Site Testing & Language Support Options
The Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology has announced new testing options and accommodations to support beauty industry students statewide. This update, provided through PSI Testing Services and aligned with the recent Senate Bill 14, allows for increased flexibility and accessibility in state licensure exams. The following changes apply to all state-approved cosmetology programs, with new options for on-site testing and language support now accessible to schools, students, and educators throughout Kentucky.
On-Site Testing Option Available for Groups of 15 or More Test Takers
To offer flexibility for Kentucky cosmetology programs, PSI now provides on-site testing for both the practical and theory exams at approved school locations. This option is available to any approved cosmetology program with a minimum group of 15 test takers, allowing schools to schedule exams on their premises under PSI supervision. This adjustment helps minimize the need for travel and allows students to complete exams in a familiar setting.
Key Requirements and Process for On-Site Testing:
- Group Minimum: On-site testing requires at least 15 registered test takers.
- Scheduling Procedure: Schools interested in arranging on-site testing must formally submit a request to PSI. This request should specify three possible test dates, the total number of test takers, and the test type required (practical or theory).
- Contact for Arrangements: Requests should be directed to Tanya Murray ([email protected]) with Tonda Hall CC’d ([email protected]) to coordinate.
These options empower schools to decide whether on-site testing is suitable for their student groups and schedule practical exams within a supportive environment. Theory testing will continue to be offered remotely or at PSI’s designated centers for students preferring or requiring other arrangements.
Foreign Language Testing Accommodation: Approved Word-to-Word Dictionaries Now Allowed
PSI Testing Services now permits test takers whose primary language is not English to use word-to-word dictionaries during Kentucky State Board exams. This accommodation aligns with Senate Bill 14, which promotes language inclusivity across the beauty industry. Eligible students may now apply to use a dictionary, pending approval, to enhance their testing experience.
Process for Securing Language Accommodations:
- Pre-Approval Requirement: Students who wish to use a word-to-word dictionary must obtain pre-approval from PSI’s Accommodations Team.
- Required Documentation: Submit an accommodations request through PSI’s ADA Request Link along with appropriate documentation from a licensed professional. The documentation must verify the need for accommodation, including diagnosis and details on the requested accommodation.
- Further Information and Assistance: For questions or further support with the accommodations process, students may contact PSI’s Accommodations Supervisors:
- Emily Mackey at [email protected]
- Beverly Antonio at [email protected]
These accommodations make Kentucky cosmetology exams more accessible to diverse student populations, offering a key support tool for non-native English speakers.
Guidelines for Test Day: Key Requirements for Students
On test day, PSI evaluators will ensure a secure and standardized process for administering the exams. Schools and students are advised to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure a smooth testing experience:
- Arrival and Check-In: PSI examiners will arrive by 7:15 AM; students should check in between 7:45 AM and 8:00 AM.
- Identification Requirements: Students must bring two valid forms of ID—one must be a government-issued photo ID with a matching name as listed in PSI’s system, along with a second form of ID.
- Testing Room Setup: Schools should ensure that the testing room is clear of any cosmetology-related posters, diagrams, or notes. For rooms with glass doors, covering the doors is advised.
- Instructor Access: Instructors are not permitted in the testing area once PSI evaluators begin setup to maintain the exam’s integrity.
These detailed requirements aim to uphold a secure testing environment, benefiting students, instructors, and PSI staff while ensuring all exams meet Kentucky State Board standards.
Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology’s Commitment to Accessible Testing
These recent updates underscore the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology’s commitment to supporting inclusivity, accessibility, and efficiency in the beauty industry. With PSI’s enhanced options, Kentucky cosmetology programs now have flexible solutions that serve a diverse student population effectively.
Disclaimer: For all specific questions or requests regarding these testing options, accommodations, or other Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology requirements, please reach out directly to PSI at PSI Exams or contact the Kentucky State Board of Cosmetology at [email protected]. Louisville Beauty Academy and other schools may choose when to implement on-site testing based on these guidelines but should confirm all arrangements directly with PSI and the State Board for official authorization.
