Creative Images Institute of Cosmetology, a local cosmetology school in Centerville, Ohio, announced on Tuesday that it will cease operations due to lingering loan debt that dates back to the COVID‑19 pandemic. The closure has created immediate concerns for both employees and students.
Payroll issues for staff
President and CEO Charles Gross told News Center 7 that a recent federal holiday delayed the processing of payroll. “They’ll get paid for the time after this payroll that they work,” Gross explained, adding that anyone scheduled to work on the holiday will receive holiday pay, and those slated for Monday will be compensated for that day as well. However, several instructors who were due to receive paychecks on Thursday reported that they had not yet been paid, prompting frustration among the remaining staff.
Student records and transcripts
Beyond payroll, the school is working to transfer academic records to the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. As of Thursday, only the Centerville campus’s records had been submitted. Gross said the next step is to digitize and send the remaining files, which include more than 200 students from the Vandalia campus, so that credit hours can be evaluated for transferability.
“Take all their records, digitize them, send them to the state,” Gross said. “The students will have their transcripts. So, we’ve been doing that yesterday, today.” He acknowledged that the process may take several days, but emphasized that the school is committed to helping students move forward.
No complaints filed
News Center 7 checked with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and found no formal complaints related to the closure. The outlet is awaiting confirmation from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board that all records have been received.
Impact on the community
The abrupt shutdown affects not only the 30‑plus staff members who now face delayed wages, but also the broader community that relied on the school for training and employment opportunities. Local businesses that partnered with Creative Images for student placements may also feel the ripple effect.
While the school’s financial challenges stem from pandemic‑era loan obligations, Gross expressed a desire to “make it right” for both employees and students during this final chapter. He encouraged anyone with unanswered questions to contact the school directly.
What’s next for students?
Students awaiting transcripts should monitor communications from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board for updates on credit transfer options. Those seeking immediate employment or further education are advised to explore alternative cosmetology programs in the region.
For staff members still awaiting pay, Gross reiterated that the school will honor all earned wages once the payroll system is back on track.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
