Family & Consumer Science

Food and Nutrition

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: none

Course Description: Food and Nutrition provides an opportunity for students with little to no prior experience in food preparation. Through academic and hands-on experiences, students will develop essential food preparation skills, emphasizing safety and sanitation, culinary techniques, and the importance of communication and teamwork, while reinforcing nutritional principles. Units of exploration include: Safety & Sanitation, Measuring & Reading Recipes, Nutrition, Baking Basics, Quick Breads, Dairy Products, and Protein-Based Foods. 

International Foods

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Food and Nutrition         

Course Description:  This semester-long course builds on the concepts introduced in Food and Nutrition, expanding students’ skills through creative cooking experiences. Students will explore Regional Foods, gaining insight into the diverse cultures and cuisines found across the United States, as well as International Foods, which highlights global traditions and promotes appreciation for cultural diversity. The course also examines how food choices reflect societal trends and emphasizes the importance of being an informed consumer in today’s food industry.

Child Development and Care 1

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: none

Course Description: This course provides students with an overview of early childhood development from conception to toddler years. Units of exploration include examining families and parenting styles, human reproduction, prenatal development, labor, delivery, and birth. Careers in child development will be discussed and explored throughout the semester. The emphasis of this course will be on the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors associated with supporting and promoting the optimal growth and development during the first few years of life. Students will be required to participate in a 48-hour RealCare® Baby Simulator project. 

Child Development and Care 2

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Child Development 1

Course Description: This advanced course offers an in-depth analysis of the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional development of preschool-age children (ages 3-5). Students will achieve a deeper understanding of prominent early childhood theorists. The curriculum also addresses complex, practical issues essential for occupational child care, including safety protocols, health issues, guidance and discipline strategies, and nutrition. A core component of the course is the development of practical learning activities designed to meet the developmental and individual needs of both toddlers and pre-school-age children.

Students can earn dual credit through STLCC for class CFD101.  

Teach and Train (Year 1)

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: A "C" or better in Child Development 1 & 2

Course Description: Teach and Train is the introductory course in the Pathways to the Teaching Profession program, created for students interested in pursuing a career in either elementary or secondary education. This course provides a foundation in the theories and practices of teaching and learning. Students explore key topics such as educational psychology, effective teaching strategies, lesson planning and classroom management, school safety and health, and the social and cultural foundations of education.

Fashion and Interior Design Fundamentals

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: none

Course Description: Students will explore a variety of topics, including textiles and fabrics, the elements and principles of design, design techniques, and career opportunities within the industry. Hands-on learning will include operating a sewing machine and reading and following patterns. The course also covers the processes involved in analyzing, planning, designing, furnishing, and equipping residential, work, and leisure spaces to meet user needs, along with an introduction to relevant public policies that influence design decisions.

Fashion Design and Construction 

Grade: 9-12             Credit: 0.5 Practical Art      Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Fashion and Interior Design Fundamentals

Course Description: Building on the skills learned in Design Fundamentals, students in this course will advance their sewing, construction, and design abilities through the completion of at least three major projects. Throughout the semester, students will deepen their understanding of commercial patterns, including symbols, parts, and proper usage. They will also explore and apply advanced sewing techniques, such as closures, seam finishes, tailoring, and garment repair. Independent work, supported by instructor guidance, is an important component of the course.