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Common Abbreviations and Terms
Common Abbreviations and Terms
Access the following document to learn more about the terms and abbreviations commonly used in FCS programs.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UZYyyHOoQCd_CGcHHFe2Wp7meUnOwBaEAmJCjIJIHzI/edit
---Funding Sources/Grants---
The following sources offer funding to support CTE for FCS and/or FCS programs directly. Review details for each below.
2024- 2025 Rural Reserve Proposal Guidelines and Application.docx2024-25 Rural Reserve Grants
2024-25 Rural Reserve Grants
(CLOSED UNTIL AUGUST 2025)
This grant is open August 15 to Feb lst (or until money is exhausted) to schools who has received less than $15,000 in Perkins money.
This annual grant is for up to $5,000 toward middle level CTE projects.
Awarded first come first award so do not hesitate to apply.
2026 Advanced Opportunity Grant.pdfAdvanced Opportunity Grant
Advanced Opportunity Grant
(CLOSED UNTIL DECEMBER 2025)
This grant is open to all Montana school districts to offer support for projects that advance support for youth.
Grants open December 2nd until money is exhausted so do not hesitate to apply.
Additional information can be found here.
Montana Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
Montana FCCLA offers mini-grants for a number of projects.
See more by visiting the Montana FCCLA website here. Look under "Community Outreach" and "Awards".
This resource builds empathy for others with a specific project focus on Food Insecurity including:
Lesson Plans
Grants
Project-based learning planning concepts
Lesson plans
Financial grants for project implementation
Up to $10,000 for completed projects
Classroom grants (under "Teacher Center")
Lesson Plans & Videos (Curriculum Matrix)
Teacher professional development
2024-25 MT AAFCS Beef Grant Application is Open!
2024-25 MT AAFCS Beef Grant Application is Open!
Double click on the document to the left to open the google form to request beef for your classroom. Each FCS teacher can apply for $100 for beef which can be a combination of ground beef and higher cuts as determined by your needs.
The amount awarded to MT AAFCS was expanded to allow more teachers (middle school and high school FCS) to apply. The grant is open until all monies are expended.
NOTE: Beef must be used prior to May lst, the deadline for submitting the final report and receipts. You can submit receipts and your final report as soon as you are finished using the grant award. See the application for additional details.
(Open grant by clicking on the title above)
The Town Pump Charitable Foundation provides financial support to Montana charitable and governmental organizations with a priority on supporting basic needs and education for Montana citizens.
The Foundation’s general grants focus on basic needs, including:
food insecurity,
homelessness, and
veterans' needs;
education, including classroom activities and reading programs; and
community assistance, including support for first responders and community projects.
In addition to general grants, the Foundation offers several other grant programs at various times throughout the year:
Keep Kids Reading Grants support libraries’ summer youth reading programs.
Meals for Backpacks Grants support schools, food banks, food pantries, and other community organizations that provide weekend meal programs to Montana students.
The Adopt a Family Grant Program awards grants to groups working to make Christmas brighter for Montana neighbors.
Visit the Foundation’s website for more information.
--------Resources for MT FCS Programs---------
--------Resources for MT FCS Programs---------
The following will provide curriculum support and resources for building and implementing a quality Family & Consumer Sciences Program:
FCS Program Support/Promotion--Foundational to and promotion of your FCS program as a whole
Teacher Curriculum Resources--Important links to create rigorous and relevant curriculum.
Classroom Teaching and Resources--Classroom ideas, lesson plans, grants and more to jump start the creative process.
Revisit often as new items will be added continually.
FCS Program Support/Promotion: (Program references, Program promotion ideas, Publications)
This YouTube channel FCS playlist includes:
I. Focus on FCS Webinars with Speakers--FY2022-23
Sept-- Mary Ellen Earnhardt--Dept of Labor/Career Lab walk through (career education resources for K-12)
Oct--Arnessa Dodson/Melanie Schmitt--Tx Tech Curriculum Center for FCS Ed (curriculum access/free rubrics)
Nov/Dec--Sharon Davis, Home Baking Association (baking and pastry resources and contest)
Jan--Linda Spahr, Explore.Act.Tell (grants for projects)
Feb--Lori Myers/Helen Fuqua, AAFCS Pre-Professional Assessment and Certification for standards based work
March--Denise Bodart, Reality Works (FCS product walk through)
April--Sean Thomas, EverFi (Financial literacy resources)
II. FONA: Science of Flavor and Food Training (2 hrs 34 min)
(See FONA resource for support files)
III. FCS Jump Start Series--August, 2023
New FCS Teachers Series
What is FCS in Montana?
Integrating FCCLA
FCS Program Planning
Financial Literacy in FCS Education Series
Standards-Based Instruction and Assessment with AAFCS Pre-PAC
Say YES to FCS in Montana--FCS Educator Promotion
IV. Focus on FCS Webinars--FY23-24 (approximately 2 hrs each)
Recruitment and Retention of FCS Educators
Marketing Items and Videos
FCS Education Programs in the US map
Post-Secondary Online FCS courses
Podcasts
Lesson Plans
Say YES to FCS annual contests
Flyers and Videos
Say YES to FCS Files
Quality FCS Programs
ACTE 12 Elements of High Quality CTE Programs
Standards list
Self Assessment Checklist
High Quality FCS Programs Webinar
The 12 elements of a high quality FCS program are discussed as they align within FCS programs as based upon ACTE 12 Elements of a High Quality CTE Program research.
TEACHER CURRICULUM REFERENCES: (Standards, Full course curriculum samples, Credentials)
National FCS Standards
http://www.leadfcsed.org/national-standards.html
Reasoning for Action
Process Questions
16 Areas of Study
FCS Curriculum Center
Texas Tech
https://www.depts.ttu.edu/hs/ccfcs/
Course Syllabus (free and for purchase)
Assessment Rubrics (free) Find them under "Resources"--"Curriculum"--"Teacher Resources"
KCCTE Course Library
Pittsburg State University
https://library.kccte.pittstate.edu/
Course Syllabus (free)
Lesson Plans (free)
Assessments (free)
Great resource for locating everything about careers. Developed by the US Dept of Labor
This will list skills needed, Montana and US wages and job outlook
Search jobs by "bright outlook", "STEM" , "Career Cluster" and by name
Suggested related careers will be generated to give students more than one option that fits their skills and apptitudes.
Learn about an industry recognized credential for careers which need a degree
See eleven options covering all FCS content fields to align to your program of study
Aligned to the national standards, tested subjects are identified to ensure what is being taught is what the industry wants to see in it's workforce
Quantity purchases mean lower costs with no expiration dates.
CLASSOOM TEACHING & RESOURCES: (Videos, Activities, Recipes, Posters, Mini-grant opportunities, Student engagement ideas)
Cross Pathway and Employability Skill Focused:
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
(One must have an affiliated chapter to use the following resources.)
Under "Engage"" tab:
National programs (lesson plans, activities) SEE MORE BELOW.
Career pathways definitions through FCS classrooms
Under "Compete" tab:
Competitive events (development and demonstration of employability and workforce skills)
Under "Adviser" tab"
Classroom lesson plans
Planning process (project management)
Step One (goal setting)
FCCLA--National Program
Members learn about themselves, the workplace, and careers so that they can put themselves on the pathway to future success.
4 Units (My Skills, My Life, My Career, My Path); 8 Lessons; 300 Activities
FCCLA--National Program Community Service
Guides members to identify local concerns and carry out projects to improve the quality of life in their communities.
3 Units (Learn, Lead, Serve); 6 Lessons; 240 Activities
FCCLA National Program
FACTS (Families Acting for Community Traffic Safety)
Gives members the information and incentives they need to build an understanding of what it means to drive safely both today and in the future.
3 Units (People, Vehicles, Roads); 6 Lessons, 125 Activities
FCCLA National Program
Members gain a better understanding of how families work and learn skills to become strong family members.
5 Units (Dynamics, Balance, Development, Safety, Skills); 4 Lesson; 25 Activities
FCCLA National Program
Engages members in teaching one another how to earn, spend, save and protect money wisely.
4 Units (Earning, Spending, Saving, Protecting); 8 Lessons; 175 Activities
FCCLA National Program
Members are to find and use their personal power by setting their own goals, working to achieve them and enjoying the results.
5 Units (A Better You, Familie Ties, Working on Working, Take the Lead, Speak Out for FCCLA); 5 Lessons; 50 Activities
FCCLA National Program
Members develop, plan, carry out and evaluate advocacy activities to improve the quality of life in their communities. Members develop their voice to make a positive impact.
3 Units (Assess, Educate, Advocate); 18 Lessons; 200 Activities
FCCLA National Program
Members learn to make informed, responsible choices for their physical and mental health while also providing opportunities to teach others.
4 Units (The Healthy You, The Fit You, The Real You, The Resilient You); 6 Lessons; 100 Activities
Montana Dept of Labor-Career Lab
Career interest surveys
Videos found on opening webpage
Industry-Wage-Occupations-Employment-Local area need profiles (All access through menu bar across the top of the opening webpage)
Family & Consumer Sciences Network
Under "Recruitment" tab:
Careers in FCS poster/brochure
FCS Ed University programs
Recruitment resources--Marketing FCS Ed, PSA recordings and more!
Under "Prepare" tab:
Online courses for new and existing teachers
Scholarships
Under "Support" tab:
30+ webinars/podcasts about FCS Ed
Teaching resources and curriculum
This resource develops employability traits and promotes economic and entrepreneurial principles. This used to be called "Youth Entrepreneurs".
Big Sky, Big Leadership Videos (MSU Extension
This series of videos (25-30 min each) cover the following topics which can be easily used in your Leadership classes and/or with FCCLA Chapter:
Gracious Space
Understanding Values
Emotional Intelligence
Group Dynamics
The Power of Storytelling
Navigating Conflict
(NEW) This link will send you to a number of student and teacher resources, games and etc related to occupations and working.
U.S. Department of Education Perkins Collaborative Resource Network--Employability Skills
(NEW) This link will provide a direct tie to definitions and strategies to teaching the all important employability skills (a.k.a. Soft Skills). It can be a great way to realize opportunities within the FCS context in middle and high school classrooms. (Scroll down a bit to locate the round icon with additional links if you hover over each section.)
2022-Ethics-Books-Movies.pdfMBA Research
Ethics Books and Movies Guide for High School Students
(NEW) This resource has ideas for incorporating books and/or movies to teach ethics (many align to employability skills).
As with all media, review everything before using. Click on the picture to access.
This hands on/project-based resource offers equipment, webinar trainings, grants and lesson plans across the CTE areas. For FCS you will find simulation babies/child care, culinary arts, food science, geriatric simulations, employability skills and more.
PATHWAY SPECIFIC RESOURCES:
Design FCS
Moon Machines:
The Space Suit
YouTube (46 min)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLiKo-Skt90
(NEW) Textiles and sewing were instrumental to getting a man on the moon.
AFFOA SeamLS Curriculum
(NEW) Eight Units teach concepts of textile engineering to address the projected textiles technology workforce needs.
WindowsWear Website
Some free access, some access require a subscription
Resources aligned to national FCS standards (Scroll to bottom of the webpage for "Educators".)
Free lesson plans related to fashion and apparel
Virtual NYC store fieldtrips
E-Commerce
Student portfolio opportunities directly linked to industry
Summer NYC Industry Immersion Professional Development--June annually
NASA Hunch Real World Challenges Program
FCS linked projects needed by NASA who know they need today's youth to help solve real problems.
Program connections to FCS include Design and Prototype (interior design related); and Sewn Soft Goods (Apparel)
Classroom resources and potentially equipment purchases too
These are real world challenges your students would try to solve using their CTE knowledge OR they use their skills to sew an item to actually be used on a NASA mission.
Training for you is provided after sign up.
Top entries win a free trip to NASA to attend the awards ceremony!
(NEW) This great resource was developed by the textile industry and offers lesson plans, webinars, videos, links to textile related library, ideas and lots more.
(NEW) This resource was developed by an industry technical designer turned FCS teacher! You will find instructional videos for all sorts of construction how to's, sewing kits or purchase, and more all aligned to industry terminology and techniques.
(NEW) This link explains how wool growers in Montana is connected to textiles, design, weaving and more. Search under "Directory" for producers who are close to you who could talk about the industry and need for students to understand wool, wool products and their role in promoting it through designing, knitting and sewing. Some also have their own websites to explore accessed through their directory post.
"Inside the Costs and Challenges of Making Clothes in the US" (4:31) TODAY Show August 12 2025
The TODAY Show aired a four and a half minute interview with the RoundHouse company of Oklahoma about manufacturing jeans in the US.
Even thought the US has lost manufacturing jobs, there are still jobs available and growth is expected. This interview could be a great way to introduce garment manufacturing.
Education and Training (K-12 is found here as is early child education ages 3-5)
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
Under "Engage"" tab:
National programs (lesson plans, activities)
Career pathways definitions through FCS classrooms
Under "Compete" tab:
Competitive events (development and demonstration of education related skills including early childhood and K-12 education)
Under "Adviser" tab"
Classroom lesson plans
Planning process (project management)
Step One (goal setting)
Big Sky, Big Leadership Videos (MSU Extension
This series of videos (25-30 min each) cover the following topics which can be easily used in your education classes:
Gracious Space
Understanding Values
Emotional Intelligence
Group Dynamics
The Power of Storytelling
Navigating Conflict
Hospitality and Tourism (Culinary Arts/Food Science is found here)
NASA Hunch Real World Challenges
FCS linked projects needed by NASA who knowsthey need today's youth to help solve real problems.
Program connections to FCS include Culinary (food innovation)
Classroom resources and potentially equipment purchases too
These are real world challenges your students would try to solve using their CTE knowledge OR they use their skills to sew an item to actually be used on a NASA mission.
Training for you is provided after sign up.
Top entries win a free trip to NASA to attend the awards ceremony!
NOTE: Culinary has a food them assigned each year.
This resource offers resources related to access and serving fresh Montana foods to schools and classrooms. Look for links under "Resources" to sign up for Farm to ECE, Beef to School, Montana Crunch Time, trainings and events.
This also have support for starting school gardens.
This resource addresses the relationship between food and emotional/ mental health.
There are grant opportunities under "grants" and links to address this issue under "programs".
Food Insecurity focus which includes:
Lesson Plans
Grants
Project-based learning planning concepts
Be sure to watch the Food Science training on flavorings under "FCS YouTube Playlist".
Here is the support materials link including lab supply lists with directions, additional support materials, and careers.
WEBSITE CONTENTS:
Bring food science to life in your classroom through flavors
Develop--Find newsletters with hundreds of references around flavorings and food science
Insights--Trends in food development
Podcasts--webinar type presentations centered on food science topics
Contact--Newsletter sign up
Sample Request--Obtain sample flavorings to use in teaching food science
This resource provides:
Recipes appropriate for the classroom
Lesson plans
Beef cutting charts and videos
Cooking and grilling pointers
National Beef Burger Day details (May 28)
Coloring pages and puzzles
and more (just explore the website)
Classroom recipes
How to tutorial videos
Lesson plans
STEAM connects
Monthly e-newsletter
Lesson Plans & Videos (Curriculum Matrix)
Classroom grants (under "Teacher Center")
Teacher professional development
Check out this website for access to a HUGE number of Food Network shows which can be used to supplement your lessons, or work for substitute plans and student research. Recipes, current chefs and relevant topics can be accessed here. Don't miss checking out Alton Brown's "Good Eats" section which includes the "science" behind the food. Access his section here
The National Restaurant Association (NRA)
This resource has a LOT of support for the culinary and food education classroom. Look under "Education and Resources" for updates on legislation related to food, such as labeling and food borne illness outbreaks and prevention. Look under "Resource Library" for current articles and videos which is searchable using the search window . Access directly here.
In addition, see videos on cooking techniques under and Kids LiveWell discuss which restaurants offer nutritious meals for kids.
Human Services (Consumerism/Financial Literacy is found here. Nutrition and basic food prepartion is found here. Child care ages birth to 5 yrs is found here as is parenting and relationship education.)
Early Childhood Organization
This is the organization which can provide information to start and/or support an early childhood effort in your community or as a family member.
Learn more about their projects, policy work, and partners. Signing up for their newsletter to learn more about their work.
This resource is a portal to age specific supports for children. It has pointers and tips and connections to other materials to assist parents with raising our next generation of Montanians.
All research based materials for the classroom about healthy living
For purchase materials about healthy living --healthy relationships, healthy financial lives and dealing with trauma
Under "Free" tab:
Webinars
Movie guides for teaching healthy relationships through Hollywood movies
Tip sheets for research about topics
This program and full curriculum has a decision-based approach to personal finance.
Benefits:
Aligned to the FCS National Standards
Assessments provided
Online video library
Free webinars
TC Today newsletter to keep up to date
Facebook and Twitter social media accounts to update teachers in real time
Teacher professional development
This resource offers resources and national standards for personal financial education across K-12 grades including free registration to their November (first week) conference (register in August/September).
Developed with input from a wide variety of financial and educational groups including FCS professionals.
Recognized as the national standards to align to by industry, educational and research groups.
Free Financial Litearcy Resource
37 learning modules
Custom videos
English and spanish versions
Montana Council For Economic Education
Montana Council For Economic Education
MCEE MT Council for Economic Education
This resource offers research based and educational practices in teaching financial literacy concepts including:
Lessons (K-12)
Learning modules
Games
Teacher trainings
School-based ChildCare Center Toolkit Training Power Point--Aug 1.pdf(NEW) School-based Child Care Center Toolkit Training Recording
Webinar Link & Passcode: mZVw3k&+
August 2024 Jump Start Series August 1, 2024
Early Childhood and CDA--FCS is the Key Part I Power Point--Aug 2.pdf(NEW) CDA in FCS Child Development Courses Training--Part 1*
Webinar Link & Passcode: aO5.!Lr$
August 2024 JumpStart Series
August 2, 2024
Early Childhood and CDA--FCS is the Key Part II Power Point--Aug 6.pdf(NEW) CDA in FCS Child Development Courses Training--Part 2*
(It's important to watch Part 1 before Part 2)
Webinar Link & Passcode: 4Tb4Ory!
August 2025 JumpStart Series
August 6, 2024
EC Career Path Levels.pdfEC Career Path Framework
(NEW) This document indicates education and training of the EC workforce in Montana. A person working within the EC field is encouraged to register here so that opportunities can be shared, accurate data collected to assist with programming and grants to meet challenging components of the industry in Montana.
Check out this website for access to a HUGE number of Food Network shows which can be used to supplement your lessons, or work for substitute plans and student research. Recipes, current chefs and relevant topics can be accessed here. Don't miss checking out Alton Brown's "Good Eats" section which includes the "science" behind the food. Access his section here
* Also find related support documents under "III. Early Childhood Program Initiatives within FCS Education " found on the "MT FCS Library" tab.
This website and program offers lesson plans to address bullying through understanding and prevention. The song "Don't Laugh at Me" is a powerful tool for teaching respect for everyone.
Lesson plans
Financial grants for project implementation
Up to $10,000 for completed projects
This resource builds empathy for others with a specific project focus on Food Insecurity including:
Lesson Plans
Grants
Project-based learning planning concepts
FCCLA Families First Deep Dive
FCCLA Families First Deep Dive
Dr. Nicole Wanago, MSU Teacher Educator, offered a deep dive into the Families First National Program at the 2024 FCCLA Fall Rally. The following are her presentation materials and resources. These would work perfectly within Human Services classes.
(From Dr. Wanago)
We delved into each of the five Families First modules by discussing key topics, exploring guiding questions, and conducting 1-2 activities per module. Students also brainstormed potential community projects. The following materials may help you as you explore these ideas further:
Career Exploration:
A major focus of the Families First program is career exploration. We wrapped up the training by connecting the work students will be doing in their chapters to potential human services/family related careers and relevant degree programs. Unfortunately, we ran out of time to play Families First Career Bingo! Here are some classroom-ready flyers about MSU programs that may interest your students:
The program is a fantastic resource to integrate into your FCS curriculum! Each module includes engaging activities, lesson plans, and relevant resources. With “strengthening families” at the heart of our profession, these lessons fit seamlessly into many classes you may already be teaching. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find once you receive your Families First national program:
Modules Lesson Plans:
A. Dynamics
Building Healthy Relationships
Building Your Family
Getting to Know You
My Bag
B. Balance
Family App
Family Interests
Program Meals
Strengthening the Family
C. Development
Ages and Stages
Community Baby Shower
Growth Through Toys
Parenting Skills
D. Safety
Addressing Family Violence Safely
FCS Careers
Kids in Cars
Safe Environment
E. Skills
Building Social Skills
Communicating with Intention
Self Advocacy
Stress Free Kids
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