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K–12 Standards

Nail Technician I (2025)

Other Maryland CTE Programs of Study sets

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS. This course is recommended for students in Grades 9-12.1

  • 1

    GENERAL REQUIREMENTS. This course is recommended for students in Grades 9-12.1

INTRODUCTION2

  • A

    Career and Technical Education (CTE) instruction provides content aligned with challenging academic standards and relevant technical knowledge and skills for students to further their education and succeed in current or emerging professions.2.A

  • B

    The Healthcare and Human Services Career Cluster encompasses careers for in-home and personal care support and offer esthetics and wellness services such as hairdressing, nail care, skincare, fitness, and massage therapy. Professionals in this field focus on enhancing personal appearance and promoting relaxation and well-being while remaining grounded in a thorough understanding of health and safety practices.2.B

  • C

    The Careers in Nail Technician Services Program is a comprehensive sequence of courses designed to prepare students for careers in the nail technology industry and success on Maryland's Limited Nail Technician licensing exam. Students begin with foundational knowledge in health and safety practices, nail and skin anatomy, and basic manicuring and pedicuring techniques. As they progress, students develop advanced skills in nail enhancements, intricate nail art, and therapeutic spa services while gaining expertise in client consultation and troubleshooting. The program integrates academic concepts, professional communication, and business practices, culminating in mastery of salon management and entrepreneurship. With a focus on Maryland-specific regulations and extensive hands-on practice, this program equips students with the technical proficiency, professional knowledge, and confidence needed to excel as licensed nail technicians.2.C

  • D

    Nail Technician I provides students with hands-on practice where they develop skills in basic manicuring, pedicuring, and nail art techniques while gaining an understanding of Maryland’s Code of Regulations for Nail Technician Services. This course prepares students to build a strong foundation in nail care and sanitation, beginning their journey toward Maryland’s Limited Nail Technician licensing exam.2.D

  • E

    Students will participate in at least two Career-Connected Education and Work-Based Learning experiences in this course, which might include informational interviews or job shadowing relevant to the program of study.2.E

  • F

    Students are encouraged to participate in extended learning experiences through aligned Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs). CTSOs are a cocurricular requirement in the Carl D. Perkins Act, and alignment to CTSO activities is an expectation for CTE programs in the state of Maryland.2.F

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS3

  • A

    The student demonstrates the necessary skills for career development, maintenance of employability, and successful completion of course outcomes. The student is expected to:3.A

    1. 1

      Identify and demonstrate positive work behaviors that enhance employability and job advancement, such as regular attendance, promptness, proper attire, maintenance of a clean and safe work environment, and pride in work.3.A.1

    2. 2

      Demonstrate positive personal qualities such as flexibility, open-mindedness, initiative, active listening, and a willingness to learn.3.A.2

    3. 3

      Employ effective reading, writing, and technical documentation skills.3.A.3

    4. 4

      Solve problems using critical thinking techniques and structured troubleshooting methodologies.3.A.4

    5. 5

      Demonstrate leadership skills and collaborate effectively as a team member.3.A.5

    6. 6

      Implement safety procedures, including proper use of software and following privacy guidelines.3.A.6

    7. 7

      Exhibit an understanding of legal and ethical responsibilities in the personal services field, following copyright laws and regulations.3.A.7

    8. 8

      Demonstrate time-management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks in a technical setting.3.A.8

  • B

    The student identifies various career pathways in the personal care service field. The student is expected to:3.B

    1. 1

      Develop a career plan that includes the necessary education, certifications, job skills, and experience for specific roles in nail technician services.3.B.1

    2. 2

      Create a professional resume and portfolio that reflect skills, projects, certifications, and recommendations.3.B.2

    3. 3

      Demonstrate effective interview skills for roles in personal care service fields.3.B.3

  • C

    The student develops technology and digital literacy skills. The student is expected to:3.C

    1. 1

      Use technology as a tool for research, organization, communication, and problem-solving.3.C.1

    2. 2

      Use digital tools, including computers, mobile devices, collaboration platforms, and cloud services, to access, manage, and create information.3.C.2

    3. 3

      Demonstrate proficiency in using emerging and industry-standard technologies, including nail technician skills and applying creative techniques to create healthy and visually appealing manicures and pedicures.3.C.3

    4. 4

      Understand ethical and legal considerations for technology use, including the principles of data protection, copyright, and responsible technology use.3.C.4

  • D

    The student integrates core academic skills into nail technician services. The student is expected to:3.D

    1. 1

      Use clear verbal and written communication during client consultations and documentation of service outcomes.3.D.1

    2. 2

      Write and maintain sanitation logs and service records in accordance with Maryland regulations.3.D.2

    3. 3

      Read and interpret industry texts, such as sanitation guidelines and anatomy references.3.D.3

    4. 4

      Apply basic math skills to measure and mix nail products accurately.3.D.4

    5. 5

      Use proportional reasoning for shaping and designing nail art.3.D.5

  • E

    The student demonstrates foundational knowledge and skills necessary for practicing nail technician services. The student is expected to:3.E

    1. 1

      Explain the history and career opportunities within the nail technology industry.3.E.1

    2. 2

      Recognize the structure, composition, and functions of the skin and nails, integrating concepts from curricular resources3.E.2

    3. 3

      Use proper consultation techniques to determine client needs, preferences, and any contraindications for services.3.E.3

    4. 4

      Outline Maryland Board of Cosmetology licensing requirements and describe the process for obtaining a Limited Nail Technician license.3.E.4

  • F

    The student applies technical skills to perform basic nail care services. The student is expected to:3.F

    1. 1

      Demonstrate proper techniques for manicuring, including shaping, cuticle care, and polishing.3.F.1

    2. 2

      Perform pedicure services, including soaking, exfoliation, and nail care, while maintaining client safety and comfort.3.F.2

    3. 3

      Practice basic nail art techniques, such as striping and color layering, to enhance service offerings.3.F.3

  • G

    The student demonstrates knowledge and application of infection control and safety practices. The student is expected to:3.G

    1. 1

      Identify and apply infection control measures, including proper sanitation, sterilization, and disinfection practices in accordance with Maryland’s Code of Regulations for nail technician services.3.G.1

    2. 2

      Set up and break down a workstation according to health and safety standards, ensuring compliance with state regulations.3.G.2

  • H

    The student demonstrates knowledge of salon operations and management practices. The student is expected to:3.H

    1. 1

      Explain the importance of salon management practices, including client scheduling, inventory control, and record-keeping.3.H.1

    2. 2

      Identify professional and ethical responsibilities of a nail technician, including confidentiality and client trust.3.H.2

Frequently asked questions

What grade levels do these standards cover?
Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, and Grade 12
Where can I read the official document?
Nail Technician

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