Family & Consumer Sciences (FACS)

FACS Overview

The Family & Consumer Sciences (FACS) program allows students to learn skills that develop character and work ethic while exploring careers in the culinary, design, and hospitality industries. These are essential life skills needed to sustain the well being of the student and management of their future families and careers.

The educational experiences in FACS courses combine classroom instruction and supervised practical experience in an approved laboratory environment. This approach empowers students to become contributing members of society, creative and critical thinkers, problem solvers, responsible family members, continuing learners, and global citizens.

For more information about these courses:

Contact Ms. Rachel VanPelt rkvanpelt@fcps.edu
Visit the JMHS FACS site

Learn more about FACS classes -

Check out the document to the right to find out more about these courses.

Course descriptions are below. You can also click on the course titles below to watch the course video.

JMHS FACS Course Offerings

Family & Consumer Sciences Courses

Click to expand or collapse course descriptions

NEW: INTRODUCTION TO INTERIOR DESIGN (825432)

Grade 9 Credit one-half (1st SEMESTER)

In this semester course, students explore influences on the design of interior spaces, investigate careers in the interior design industry, and focus on the technical and soft skills necessary for employment in the interior design profession. Students develop an interior design project that meets specific criteria and includes the elements and principles of design.

(Pairs with Fitness & Food semester course)

NEW: NUTRITION AND WELLNESS - SEMESTER (822832)

Grade 9 Credit one-half (2nd SEMESTER)

This semester course is designed to focus on making choices that promote wellness and good health; obtaining and storing food for self and family; preparing and serving nutritious meals and snacks; and using science and technology in food management. Critical thinking and practical problem solving are emphasized.

(Pairs with Intro to Interior Design semester course; Students who take the semester Nutrition & Wellness course can also take the year-long Nutrition & Wellness in the future)

NUTRITION AND WELLNESS - YEAR (822900) FORMERLY: GOURMET FOODS*

Grades 10, 11, 12 Credit one

This year long course focuses on understanding wellness; investigating principles of nutrition; planning menus and preparing foods from different cultures; ensuring food safety; exploring careers in the field of nutrition and wellness; and using science and technology in food management. Critical thinking and practical problem solving are emphasized. FCCLA, the co-curricular student organization, offers opportunities in leadership, community, and competitive events.

(Students who have taken the semester Nutrition & Wellness course can take the yearlong Nutrition & Wellness class)

Career & Technical Student Organization

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is the intra-curricular student organization for Family & Consumer Sciences classes. All current and former FACS students can become members of FCCLA.

Throughout the year there are opportunities for FCCLA members to develop leadership and give service through activities such as local, state (Virginia Beach), and national competitions and other student led projects in the school and community.

FCCLA is The Ultimate Leadership Experience!

FAQ's

Does Nutrition & Wellness count as an 'art' class?

All FACS courses fulfill the Fine Arts/Career and Technical Ed credit for your diploma and offer Career and Technical Education Credential testing to meet graduation requirements.

Where does this class take place?

Nutrition & Wellness is a 1-credit course AT Madison HS. N&W is NOT an academy course, so you do not need extra travel periods in your schedule. (However, there is a different Culinary Arts academy class at Marshall Academy).

Can I take year long Nutrition & Wellness if I took the 9th grade semester N&W?

Yes! You can take the year long course if you took the semester class. You can also take the year long class if you didn't take the 9th grade class.

Can I be in FCCLA if I don't take a FACS class next year?

Yes! FCCLA membership is open to any current OR former FACS student. So even if you took FACS in middle school, you can join FCCLA if you're unable to take a FACS course next year.

Visit the JMHS FACS site for additional information about the FACS program, FCCLA, & Ms. VanPelt.

Intro Interior Design/Nutrition & Wellness (Semester courses, Grade 9)

Nutrition & Wellness (Yearlong, Grades 10-12)