On most weekdays, the Inspiration Salon and Spa is buzzing with business. Just past the floor-to-ceiling glass wall and sleek reception desk is where dozens of aspiring cosmetologists practice on any willing client.
But in the first half of January, just days into winter quarter at Spokane Community College (SCC), the salon is mostly quiet.
Shelves and cabinets that surround the salon’s main hair studio are fully stocked with shampoos, conditioners, styling products, treatments, colors and chemicals. The rest of the space is filled by a handful of shampoo bowls and enough rows of double-sided vanity desks to fit 40 students and their clients…