The 21st century brings with it new and diverse demands on all aspects of family life. Families are facing rapidly changing living patterns, are grappling with greater demands of the workplace on home life, and are witnessing an accelerated change in family member roles and functions. If we are to prepare our children for happy and prosperous futures, we must critically examine their preparation to become healthy and productive citizens, parents, consumers, home managers, and wage earners.
Family and Consumer Sciences education empowers individuals and families across the lifespan to manage the challenges of living and working in a diverse global society. The unique focus is on families, work, and their interrelationships.
Family and Consumer Sciences education has roots in both academic and career/technical education and reaches beyond the educational system into the community as it focuses on the needs of individuals and families
Our middle school Family & Consumer Sciences program is a student-centered, project-based course that prepares students for future Career & Technical Education experiences while also building essential lifelong skills they will carry with them no matter what path they choose. Through sewing and culinary arts, students develop independence, creativity, and responsibility in a supportive, engaging environment.
7th Grade: Foundations & Exploration
Students are introduced to the fundamentals of textile construction and food preparation.
Textile Arts: Hand Sewing Fundamentals & Construction
Students learn sewing safety, proper tool use, and foundational hand stitches. They apply these skills through a guided project, gaining experience in pattern use and basic construction techniques.
Culinary Arts: Kitchen Safety & Introductory Food Preparation
Students explore kitchen safety, sanitation, and proper use of equipment, including the use of the oven. Through simple recipes, students build foundational skills in measuring, following procedures, and understanding the role of ingredients. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence, accuracy, and independence in the kitchen.
Students also build teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills. An optional at-home cooking project is available for enrichment.
8th Grade: Advanced Exploration & Refinement
Students expand their skills with more advanced techniques and increased independence.
Textile Arts: Sewing Machine Operation & Applied Construction
Students learn sewing machine safety, parts, and operation. They demonstrate proficiency through a skills assessment and complete a construction project that reinforces precision and technique.
Culinary Arts: Food Preparation & Intermediate Cooking Techniques
Students continue to build on kitchen safety and proper use of equipment, including the use of the stove and oven. Through more complex recipes, they refine measuring skills, deepen their understanding of ingredient functions, and develop stronger time management and workflow strategies.
Students continue to strengthen critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. An optional at-home cooking project is also available.
Students can choose from the following electives:
ACE FACS
Culinary Arts
Advanced Culinary Arts
Bakeshop
Nutrition & Fitness
Fashion & Clothing
Interior Design
Lifespan Studies
Child Development
Early Childhood Education
College Education
the above courses provides individuals with knowledge and skills in:
Nutrition and food preparation
Setting personal food and exercise goals for a healthier lifestyle
Cultures and foods form the U.S. and countries around the world
Personal resource management
Family and human development
Early childhood education
Parenting and care giving
Clothing care and management
Housing and environment
Consumerism
Career Connections
Tara Mauer
Director of Mathematics, K-12
Supervisor of Family & Consumer Sciences, 7-12
(516) 678-8567