My situation is almost similar to yours.  The only way to get better is to practice, practice, practice.  My philosophy is this: Watch the dvds until you see them in your sleep.  Break out your maniken and get it cracking!!! I tell my peeps this many times in most of my posts.

You need to get away from that environment because it will hinder your confidence.  Find another salon that will start you as being an assistant (besides shampooing).  Show them what you can do.  Ask if you can bring in a model for a demonstration just to show them your skill level, however at the same time you still need to learn a lot of things.

Honestly, every salon has its own way of doing things. Be it hair cutting, color, even draping a client.  Take what you know and blend it into what ever the other salons techniques that are used. All you have to do is sort out each phase of knowledge and apply it accordingly.

Its so many things that I want to learn how to do, but can't seem to find no one to show me how different techniques are done. I deal mostly with over-curly textured hair. A lot of relaxer applications, weaves, etc, but I'm hungry to learn how certain styles are executed.  What tools and products are being used.  I work for a corporate chain salon (JCP) and its just the same ole/same ole; know what I mean?  The salon is multi-cultural and I work with some very talented women, but their attitude suck. They're a little catty and cut-throat. Haven't worked in that type of environment in a while and I'm getting used to it all over again.

I block them out. Have to in order to retain some peace of mind. Anywho your decision is not stupid at all!!!  Its the smartest thing you can do for yourself.

I go to the hairshows and purchase many, many dvds on all types of styles and hair types.  Thats how I taught myself how to do a lot of styles, yet there is so much more I want to learn how to do.  You can also order dvds online.

Confront the situation head on.  Ask the person if they have anything against you and why it seems that person avoids you when you need be taught.   If necessary have a meeting with the owner/manager to get to the root of the problem.  Maybe that person is intimidated by your potential, feel me.

Food for thought... In the vast industry you should never stop driving your own education! Just take into consideration the plan of building your ideal clientelle. It doesn't sound like the salon you are in now is very positive or supportive, is this where you want to be for a long time?? Keep persuing your knowledge and consider shopping around for a new salon maybe...

At least you are getting classes in salon, thats more than a lot of salons offer. (Is it worth it?)

If you feel you have skills find a salon willing to take you in and see what you are made of. There's no shame in trying and then taking a step back if you need to later on...