East High’s barbershop earns Champions of Change Award

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — East High’s Cutting Edge Barbershop was recognized Monday by the New York State School Board Association.

East High has received the Champions of Change Award.

Cutting Edge is the first on-campus barbershop to offer free haircuts to Rochester students and for interested students, it’s also an educational opportunity. It opened back in October of 2021.

The service is in partnership with the United Professional Barbers and Cosmetologists Association.

"The mentorship that is provided here is not just the free haircut, the quality of life skills but it’s also introducing them to people who are business owners who are business owners within the city," said master barber Willie Lightfoot.

The Champions of Change Award celebrates programs that address equity issues, introduce unique learning opportunities, and show strong student performance.