AAFCS Public Policy

How can we effectively advocate for Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) at the local and state levels? We can effectively advocate for FCS when we can answer this question: “Why are we essential in public education and in society, as a whole?”

Advocacy efforts are vitally important to sustaining secondary and postsecondary FCS programs, increasing the visibility and sustainability of FCS in Texas, and influencing legislation that affects the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. TX-AAFCS is committed to providing members with useful tools, resources, and leadership that will help them successfully advocate for FCS programs and related policies.

The TX-AAFCS Public Policy Committee will work together to create resources, alert members about policy issues, and provide direction for FCS public policy efforts.

There are also several ways FCS professionals can effectively advocate at the local and state levels:

  • Promote the FCS brand to clearly communicate the value of the FCS field, as well as the essence of the field. This branding information can be found at https://www.aafcs.org/allianceforfcs/fcs-alliance-brand.

  • Publicize how your FCS makes an impact on individuals, families, and communities in providing an optimal quality of life:

        • Share FCS Success Stories – student success and service learning/industry success;

        • Show statistical data on the effectiveness of FCS in secondary education – FCCLA participation, dual college credit participation and completion, work-based learning opportunities, industry certifications, etc.;

        • Conduct a follow-up of former secondary and postsecondary FCS students and promote where they are today through social media platforms and/or on your FCS website.

        • Develop business-education partnerships by establishing an advisory committee to demonstrate why they should support FCS education programs;

        • Increase dual college credit opportunities between secondary and postsecondary partners to validate the rigorous academic content taught;

        • Write a letter to your district representative and senator on issues affecting families and education.

If you need help with any of the ideas listed above, please contact us at txaafcs@gmail.com. Also, you may request a letter of support from us by contacting txaafcs@gmail.com.