FCCLA advocate for CTE

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA)members,andFamily and Consumer Sciences (FCS) professionals united in Washington, D.C. to advocate for Career and Technical Education (CTE) during the annual FCCLA Capitol Leadership meeting from October 9-11, 2023.

Avery Ludrick, Kooper Walker and Ella Weaver from Kingston FCCLA attended Capitol Leadership where they joined with youth leaders from across the nation to use their voice and passion to promote the need for the continuation of congressional support to fund Career and TechnicalEducation.Theyhad the opportunity to personally meet with offices of Senator Markwayne Mullin and Congressman Josh Brecheen to gain the support necessary to ensure all students have access to Family and Consumer Sciences education.

During Capitol Leadership, FCCLA hosted a legislative briefing on Tuesday, October 10 in the historic Hart Senate Office Building aimed at empowering its members with essential knowledge regarding key legislative acts. The briefing, whichfocusedonthePREP Act, the RETAIN Act, and the RAISE Act, ensured FCCLA members were well-informed as they met with members of Congress to advocate for legislation that improves teacher preparation, retention, and support.

“It was an eye opening experience to talk with political leaders in Washington, D.C. about the importance of FCCLA in my life and community,” said Kooper Walker, Kingston FCCLA President.

Capitol Leadership is the first of three national FCCLA gatherings held annually where members and FCS educators develop their leadership style, learn real-world skills, and explore Career Pathways. Upcoming conferences include the 2023 National Fall Conference in Birmingham, AL and the 2024 National Leadership Conference in Seattle, WA.