Hidden "beauty" gems are getting harder to find in the San Gabriel Valley, but this place is…read moredefinitely worth checking out. My sister-in-law recently introduced my daughter and me to this beauty school, and we were both pleasantly surprised. It's a simple, clean space where student technicians provide haircuts, facials, manicures, pedicures, and other beauty services under the guidance of their instructors. The best part is that you receive great service at very reasonable prices while helping students gain hands-on experience. My sister-in-law has been coming here for her manicures and pedicures for quite some time and has always been happy with the results. During our visit, I chose a simple beige jelly manicure. The appointment was quick, and three weeks later my nails are still going strong with no signs of peeling or lifting, even though I'm typing on a keyboard all day. My daughter picked an adorable design featuring stars and the soot sprites from the movie Spirited Away, and she absolutely loved how they turned out. She was even wearing gloves in the middle of July just to protect her nails! Everyone we met was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the whole experience enjoyable from start to finish. There is also plenty of onsite and street parking, which makes visiting even more convenient. This is a fantastic way to enjoy quality mani/pedi at a great price while supporting future professionals.

Great experience at the 1st Academy School for Manicure and Pedicure!…read more The cat-eye nails turned out super cute. I absolutely love them!

Good college, good program, but not a good professor, they need to get another day teacher for this…read moreprogram. I have had bad experiences with the current esthetician professor there, n wasn't able to graduate from the program. I will not be returning due to the teachers lack of communication, consideration, and ability to teach properly. I felt I didn't learn nothing that I couldn't teach myself. She teaches/lectures one time and expects you to know it already, she gets mad, and speaks over you when you try to ask for help or to repeat something while we're in the spa practicing on each other alone without her in there watching over us making sure we're doing everything correct, instead she's sitting in her office.

They never answer the freaking phone I called many times to ask for information about the…read moreesthetician program and voicemail is the one that answers !

Got my gel mani done by Jenny. Very happy with my nails. Jenny was very friendly. Take a chance on…read morethe students!

Upon entering the salon, you are greeted by friendly staff. I was serviced by Annabelle, who is so…read moresweet and professional! She listened to my needs and what goals I had for my hair and exceeded my expectations! I definitely recommend booking with her! She's knowledgeable and will help guide you through the entire process!

Above The Rest Academy provided outstanding education and hands-on training. The instructors were…read moreprofessional, patient, and always willing to help. I gained valuable skills, confidence, and industry knowledge that will benefit me throughout my career. I highly recommend this academy to future beauty professionals.

Highly recommend school for barbering the teachers and staff are always welcoming and helpful. I've…read morecompleted my apprentice program and I feel confident on my journey forward to my next step of taking the state board exam. The classes were helpful in breaking down the study of barbering and going over everything we learned to ensure we understood what we've studied. Hands on activities were helpful in getting to understand first hand how to properly provide services for clients. Overall a great experience & welcoming environment.

Great job for my Family!!! Amazing work and great attitude…read moreand inexpensive great for a big family and special with Boys

This is a good school to get ready for state board ..test...... I'm a barber license and i went to…read more this school in 2001.....im very satisfied....

I chose JLC Beauty school after comparing multiple programs and looking at their high exam pass…read morerates online. Their pricing was more competitive than other schools offering a manicurist license, which made the decision even more practical without compromising quality. Ms. Carrie was a standout instructor her ability to break down the material and streamline the learning process made preparing for the state board feel structured, clear, and highly achievable! That level of guidance is invaluable. She is a great teacher! Mr.Lai is always kind, professional, and encouraging. He is always very considerate, and cares for every student! The environment itself is welcoming yet professional, creating a space that encourages growth while maintaining high standards. One of the standout aspects of this program is their flexibility. They were able to accommodate my schedule, making it possible to stay consistent despite having a busy lifestyle. They also brought in the creator of Sofgel to give a live demo, along with offering discounted products, which added a lot of value and real industry insight to the program. I left the program not only licensed, but confident in my skills and foundation. I would strongly recommend this school. Although it's a Chinese-based school, the program is fully accessible in English -200- hour online portion. Don't let that discourage you it's *very* manageable and accommodating for English-speaking students!

It is about time I write a review for this place! I have come here 4 times to get gel manicures and…read moreevery time I come, it is always great! It is only $15 for a gel manicure and the students always take their time doing my nails. I have never been disappointed. Scheduling an appointment is also extremely easy, just give them a call. I cannot say anything about other services and courses, just simply from a customer getting her nails done. I recommend this place to everyone!

My name is Jesse Rodriguez, and I attended the electrical program at Baldwin Park Adult School. Mr…read more Naseiro is a very knowledgeable teacher. I had previously enrolled in a three-month electrical program at another school, where I learned some concepts incorrectly. In this program at Baldwin Park, Mr. Naseiro taught me how to correct the mistakes from the previous school. In this program, I gained knowledge about residential, commercial, industrial, and motor controls wiring. I learned how to wire various systems and how to bend conduit. Most importantly, I learned about safety and personal protective equipment (PPE). As a result of this program, I obtained my Electrical Trainee Card and can now work in the field. Mr. Naseiro, counselor Ms. Razo, and the front office and financial aid staff have all been amazing in helping me with everything I needed. Thank you to everyone involved. This school truly cares about ensuring that each individual student has the resources they need to be successful.

Rosemary in the admin office is a great help! Helped me get my electrical trainee card and…read moreregistered in a timely manner

This place has everything for barbers, hair stylist and regular customers alike. It's low key and…read morequiet inside, supplies lining the walls and aisles and the couple times I've been here, the staff is very helpful. The school section is in the back. Huge space with several set ups including barbet chairs make up booths and shampoo stations. The school gives back to the community by providing free hair cuts and stylings. I'm sure they will outgrow this location soon to service a larger customer base for barber/beauticians and customers Good job and good luck

Simply Divine Barbering Academy is a true gem--a place where professionalism, purpose, and passion…read morecome together to shape the next generation of elite barbers/hair stylists. The moment you walk in, you're greeted by a clean, organized space that reflects the academy's high standards. Every station is impeccably sanitized and stocked with barbering essentials including precision clippers, texturizing shears, neck dusters, and a diverse selection of grooming products ranging from beard oils and shampoos to pomades and straight razors. It's clear that this is more than a learning center--it's a workshop of excellence. **Ms. Keisha**, the founder and director, is a powerhouse leader whose vision fuels the school's success. She maintains a culture built on integrity, skill development, and client-focused service. Her passion for barbering education shows in everything--from the academy's spotless facilities to the accessibility of top-tier products for student use in the beauty supply section. **Ms. Shantell** is an exceptional educator--her instruction is detailed, intuitive, and deeply rooted in industry standards. She tunes in to each student's learning style and adapts her teaching methods to ensure mastery of both technique and theory. Whether guiding students through clipper-over-comb work or reinforcing best practices for sanitation and scalp care, she fosters a learning environment built on skill, confidence, and professionalism. **Ms. Gigi** adds a unique spark to the instructional team with her attractive personal style, poise, and student-focused guidance. Her professionalism sets the bar high, and she has a remarkable ability to mentor aspiring barbers through both technical challenges and creative expression. Whether refining fades, shaping beard aesthetics, or consulting on fashion-forward hair design through dyes, Ms. Gigi is deeply attuned to student growth and always brings flair to the classroom. **David and Devin**, two standout student barbers, embody everything Simply Divine stands for. Their attention to detail is impeccable, delivering consistent cuts with finesse--from sharp hairlines and tapered fades to clean razor finishes. They bring positive energy to the floor, always prioritizing client comfort, hygiene, and precision. Their use of proper draping, tool sterilization, helping out fellow classmates and consultation techniques reflect real professionalism in motion. The academy's product selection deserves its own praise--students and clients alike benefit from access to professional-grade styling products, wigs, trimmers, foils, merchandise and sanitizers. Whether for instruction or client servicing, Simply Divine ensures the tools are there to create, elevate, and impress. If you're seeking a place where barbering is taught with heart, precision, and purpose--look no further than Simply Divine Barbering Academy. From its pristine environment to the standout leadership of Ms. Keisha, Ms. Shantell, Ms. Gigi, and the rising talent of David and Devin, this academy is truly shaping the future of the trade with style and substance. **As a resident and professional in the Monrovia area, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how Simply Divine Barbering Academy extends its mission beyond the classroom and into the heart of our community. Their ongoing commitment to service is reflected in numerous volunteer events, outreach programs, and educational incentives that have made a measurable difference for local families and young adults seeking direction and mentorship. Whether offering complimentary haircuts at community wellness fairs, participating in back-to-school events with supply donations, or organizing outreach that supports underrepresented groups, Simply Divine consistently demonstrates what it means to lead with purpose. These initiatives not only provide practical support, but also uplift community morale, foster dignity, and encourage professional growth among Monrovia's youth. The academy's presence has helped bridge gaps between trades education and real-world service, showing that barbering is more than technique--it's about building confidence and connection. Under the leadership of Ms. Keisha and her team of dynamic instructors, Simply Divine has become a beacon of integrity, inclusion, and empowerment within our city. Their example inspires others--myself included--to see beauty and professionalism as a tool for community transformation. Thank you for all that you do Simply Divine!