Family and Consumer Sciences

Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) provides the bridge needed by all students to deal with major societal issues such as work-and-family, health care, child and elder care, family and community violence and crime, global economics and politics, and technology usage. FCS Education is a catalyst to bring these issues into action-oriented, skill-building educational programs. The North Carolina FCS Education program provides a platform for students to transition into adult life by gaining a strong foundation of the knowledge and skills needed for successfully living and working in a diverse, global society. Students develop personal effectiveness and industry-relevant technical skills as they explore and pursue career pathways aligned to the FCS Body of Knowledge and Family and Consumer Sciences National Standards 3.0.

Students may pursue the following career pathways:

• Counseling and Mental Health

• Culinary Arts Applications

• Culinary Arts Internship

• Early Childhood Development and Services

• Hospitality and Tourism Management

• Interior Design

• Teaching/Training

FCCLA

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a national Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) that significantly enhances Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education. Established in 1945, FCCLA focuses on personal growth and leadership development through FCS education, emphasizing roles such as family member, wage earner, and community leader. The organization provides teacher-developed and student-tested project-based learning strategies, shifting the responsibility for achieving Career and Technical Education (CTE) and FCS program outcomes to students. Through various intracurricular chapter programs and projects, students deepen their understanding of FCS standards and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. FCCLA most directly supports Career Clusters in Arts and Design, Hospitality and Tourism, Financial Services, Education and Training, Human Services, and Public Service. 

FCCLA offers numerous opportunities for students to engage in competitive events, community service, and leadership development. With over 244,000 student members and more than 7,300 chapter advisers across 5,300 chapters, FCCLA fosters a vibrant community committed to making a difference. The organization addresses various youth concerns, including parenting, family relationships, substance abuse, peer pressure, sustainability, nutrition and fitness, teen violence, and career preparation. Additionally, FCCLA provides merit-based scholarships and helps students explore career pathways, making them college- and career-ready. By participating in FCCLA, students develop essential life skills and become leaders in their families, careers, and communities.
 

For more information on FCCLA opportunities visit:
National FCCLA
State FCCLA