The Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) curricula are based on the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. Content and skills focus on the individual, the family, and the community. This academic discipline starts with the understanding that families, as the fundamental unit of society, are responsible for nurturing their members. Family experiences, therefore, can determine who a person is and what a person becomes. Working within that basic premise, the Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum supports the development of the knowledge and skills that students need to create strong families.

FCS students learn how to share responsibilities inside and outside of the home. As they become aware of the individuals, families, and communities that are part of their lives, students learn to embrace diversity. Students are also encouraged to strengthen their intellectual development.

The Family and Consumer Science Department is currently undergoing a curricular review and evaluation process. Our goal is to improve and update the course selections available to students.

Family and Consumer Sciences 6-8
The middle school curriculum is required of all students. This curriculum introduces students to basic topics in family and consumer sciences and life skills. Students may choose to expand on their knowledge by taking electives in high school.

Family and Consumer Sciences 9-12
Courses in family and consumer sciences on the high school level are all electives. We currently offer foods and nutrition classes that emphasize the importance of a healthy lifestyle. In these classes, students view culinary demonstrations and practice the skills they have observed in the foods laboratory. The child development program provides the opportunity for students to observe and work with preschool children within the community. Life skills, such as balancing a checkbook and purchasing a home, are taught in our independent living classes. Fashion design classes cover the past, present, and future of this industry and enable students to explore career opportunities.

Through a partnership with our elementary schools, our students are able to explore the teaching profession. This partnership is part of our School-to-Work Program, which combines school-based learning with on-the job instruction.

FCS students learn how to share responsibilities inside and outside of the home. As they become aware of the individuals, families, and communities that are part of their lives, students learn to embrace diversity. Students are also encouraged to strengthen their intellectual development.

Family and Consumer Science Academic Standards:

• Academic Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences.

Please click here to access the academic standards.

Contact:
Paul Joyce, Ed.D. 
Supervisor of Science, Family and Consumer Science, and Technology Education