Delaware Proposes Rules to Solve Instructor Shortage

With the goal of resolving the Delaware instructor supply and demand dilemma, the Delaware Board of Cosmetology and Barbering (Board) issued proposed revisions to its Rules and Regulations. The suggested changes establish standards and requirements for a temporary instructor permit. This proposed provisional pathway was designed to address—and hopefully solve—current instructor shortages in schools.

We encourage you to elevate your voice and email the Board at danielle.ridgway@delaware.gov before February 13 to show your support of, or opposition to, the proposed rules. If you’ve considered a change from behind the chair or swapping the treatment room for a classroom, or if your school has encountered difficulties finding enough instructors to educate the next generation of industry professionals, the Board will want to hear from you. ASCP breaks down the rules for you below.

Temporary Instructor Permit—Provisional Pathway
The proposed rules explain how a temporary instructor permit—provisional pathway would be issued. An applicant would have to meet the following requirements:

• Complete grade 12 (or equivalent)
• Hold an active license as a cosmetologist, barber, esthetician, nail technician, or electrologist
• Be employed by a vocational or accredited school as a temporary instructor
• Complete 500 hours of supervised experience at a vocational or accredited school, or 250 hours of supervised experience at a vocational or accredited school and two years of licensed, full-time experience
  • Supervision must be provided by a licensed instructor, and experience must be documented by the employer
• Complete the instructor examination

Permit Expiration
A temporary instructor permit—provisional pathway would expire once an individual finishes the required number of supervised hours and/or licensed experience or one year after the permit is issued, whichever occurs first. The proposed rules would allow the Board to grant a 45-day extension if an applicant applies for the instructor exam and is awaiting examination.

Note: The temporary instructor permit—provisional pathway cannot be transferred to another school unless the request is approved by the Board.