Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) is a discipline that prepares young people for living in today's world as well as tomorrow's. This program deals with the relationship between individuals, families, and communities, and the environment in which they live throughout the life span. The field represents many disciplines including consumer science, nutrition, food preparation, parenting, early childhood education, family economics and resource management, human development, textiles as well as other related subjects. Experiences are provided in all areas of the curriculum to strengthen family life and to prepare students for the multiple roles of family member, wage earner, community member, and related careers. At Henderson County High School students learn about numerous topics which include but are not limited to: caring for themselves and their family, preparing for careers, creating & following a budget, comparison shopping, sewing, foods & nutrition, family & social relationships, positive communication, parenting skills,  human growth & development, contraception, STDs and health factors, early childhood education, & on-the-job training through Cooperative Learning experiences. In sum, Family and Consumer Sciences remains the only educational program that directly addresses the preparation of students for adult roles, including work and family responsibilities. Also, students have the chance to receive various certifications and dual credit through several colleges and universities.

Certifications that can be earned throughout this Career Major!

• Child Development Associates Credential (CDA)

  • NATIONAL CREDENTIAL (industry certificate)

  • Students will receive 9 college credit hours (savings of $1300-$2500  depending on chosen college)

  • Includes 480 hours of working with children, 120 hours of approved training, 2 hour observation, parent questionnaires, and a written/oral exam

• Dual Credit (3 hours/credits) in course IEC 101 (Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education)

• Commonwealth Child Care Credential of Eligibility (CCCC)

  • The Commonwealth Child Care Credential (CCCC) is awarded as an initial credential to early care and education professionals who successfully complete 60 hours of approved training. Students will receive the full credential after they turn 18 and are employed in a child care facility.

  • You will be *Career Ready* with this industry certification if college benchmarks have been met.

• Orientation for Early Care and Education Professionals 6 hour training

  • This training fulfills the mandatory 6-hour orientation requirement for early care and education professionals in Kentucky. According to state regulations, a child care provider is required to complete orientation training within three months of being hired to work in a licensed child care program, or within three months of becoming a certified family child care provider.

  • You will be *Career Ready* with this industry certification if college benchmarks have been met.

• Internship/job shadowing experience for professional growth and future references.