FCCLA competitive events aren't just about trophies — they're a direct expression of the discipline we teach every day. In this session, presented by FCCLA Virginia state staff, participants will explore how the six career pathways connect to and strengthen competitive event preparation across the full range of FCCLA competitions. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just getting your chapter off the ground, you'll leave with a clearer picture of how to align your program's pathway focus with meaningful competitive experiences for students.
Where Family Science Meets Human Need: Integrating Social Work Perspectives into FCS Education
Family and Consumer Sciences has always been about the whole person — and so has social work. In this session, participants will explore the powerful intersection between FCS education and social work frameworks, building understanding of key concepts and why they belong in our classrooms. We'll examine the social, emotional, and economic factors shaping the lives of our students and their families, and explore practical strategies for supporting student well-being without stepping outside our lane. Participants will also consider how to build intentional collaborative relationships with families, community partners, and available resources. Because FCS educators have always seen the whole child — this session gives us a sharper vocabulary for what we already do.