According to the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences, today’s FCS (Family & Consumer Sciences) courses have changed dramatically in the last half-century to keep up with the times. Formerly known as home economics, FCS classes today focus on issues “relevant to today’s individuals and families and skills critical to successful living and working in the 21st century global society.” Courses focused on cooking and sewing skills, for instance, are interspersed with math, science, nutrition, sustainability and economics topics. FCS courses also address topics like personal and family finance, responsible parenting, and peaceful conflict resolution. Today’s FCS programs equip students with skills they will use for their entire life. Keep reading to learn 5 interesting facts all about FCS.
FCS courses are responsible for many daily school practices we take for granted
From bringing healthier meals to schools to standardizing garment sizes to teaching life skills, FCS has a grand history and list of accomplishments. See the full list here.
FCS prepares students for success in just about all areas of life!
FCS education has a mission to prepare students for successful relationships, family life, work like, careers and much more. Visit here for a complete mission statement.
To learn more about AAFCS, an organization promoting FCS standards, mission, values and ethics, visit here.
FCS teachers are in-demand
Educators are in demand, including FCS teachers. According to the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), here are the top 5 reasons to become an FCS educator:
- You want to make a difference in young people’s lives
- You enjoy equipping students with skills to thrive at home and vocation
- You appreciate the diversity of activities each day brings
- You want to share their humanity skills with students
- FCS educators are in demand with many jobs available throughout the US
FCS professionals work in many industries
Family and consumer sciences professionals are not restricted to teaching. You may also find FCS professionals working in these areas:
- Apparel & Textile Design
- Food & Nutrition Sciences
- Human Development & Family Science
- Hospitality
- Interior Design
- Nutrition & Fitness
- Communications
- Consumer Economics & Financial Planning
There are 5 million high school FCS students in the US today
Did you know that there are approximately 5 million FCS high school students in the United States? By graduation, these students will have learned to make educated decisions about their life goals, personal affairs, and be more prepared for their future life.
Resources for continued learning
Looking for more facts about FCS? Consider these resources:
- See more FCS facts by downloading this free infographic
- Get free FCS career exploration curriculum here
- See our latest case study: Engaging 21st Century Family & Consumer Sciences Students: The Impact of Infant Simulators here
- Explore all of our hands-on training tools for FCS education here
