LEWISTON — One day before it was scheduled to resume classes, Mr. Bernard’s School of Hair Fashion Inc. announced the abrupt closure of both locations, Lewiston and Bangor, Monday.

The message left on the school’s Lewiston social media page simply stated, “It is with great regret that we are announcing that Mr. Bernard’s School is closed, effective immediately.

“Students are being contacted individually, and our staff will be working with them during this difficult transition.”

Later, they posted that individual times have been set for students to come in and retrieve their personal belongings — a far cry from “May your days be merry and bright,” posted Dec. 19.

With the school’s 55-year history, its modern approach to closing its doors via Facebook seemed unfashionable for some followers.

Lisa Mai Pratte commented, “The sad part is it is posted on Facebook and other places before they even let the students know about this. (Current students) are in a panic wondering what they are going to do.

“Loans they were going to get this coming Friday they are counting on for paying their rent and other budget items that they need to live by to get by while working full-time jobs and going to school full time. But let’s all post it in (a) public forum first before taking care of their own people.”

On Mr. Bernard’s website, the school touts its accreditation, licensed by the State of Maine Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, and offers several financial aid options for prospective students including Pell grants, direct student loans and the G.I. Bill.

The Sun Journal had attempted to contact both school locations Monday for comment. Messages via email and the school’s social media accounts were not returned.

dmcintire@sunjournal.com

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