Kaplan High FCCLA students attend State Leadership Conference

Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members from Kaplan High School learned leadership skills and participated in state competition while attending the 2023 FCCLA State Leadership Conference on March 9 and 10 on the campus of Northwestern State University in Natchitoches.
The theme of the conference, “Red, White, and YOU,” empowered members to be the change the want to see in their families, schools, and communities. Kaplan High School chapter members returned from the conference with a determination to focus their energies on strengthening their leadership skills to be positive examples for their peers. The state conference also gave members the opportunity to compete in STAR Events (Students Taking Action with Recognition). Kylie Suggs competed in Fashion Construction. This is an individual event that recognizes participants who apply fashion construction skills learned in Family and Consumer Sciences courses and create a display using samples of their skills.. She received a silver medal for the two-piece lined business suit she constructed. Katelyn Leger placed third in the Family and Consumer Sciences knowledge test and Bryan Mayeux placed second in the Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation knowledge test. John Roberts was elected to serve on the Louisiana FCCLA State Executive Council as the State President for 2023-2024.
Students had the opportunity to participate in many leadership workshops, breakout sessions, and hear a keynote speaker. The Hospitality Management and Tourism (HMT) department at Northwestern State University conducted campus tours and admissions visits to allow students to explore Family and Consumer Sciences related degree pathways. Students against Destructive Decisions (SADD) was in attendance to share information about occupant safety in motor vehicles. Students participated in the seatbelt relay to demonstrate just how fast and easy it is to buckle up when in a vehicle! Sudden Impact, a program developed by the Louisiana State Police and University Medical Center, presented a compelling workshop about the risks and dangers of distracted and destructive decisions while driving. The Northwestern State University HMT students led a workshop on improving communication and leadership skills. Mr. David Harper, principal at Jennings Elementary School, delivered an impactful keynote address that highlighted four actions to implement that will make you an outstanding leader on your school campus.
For more information regarding Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America or partnership opportunities, please contact the Kaplan High School chapter adviser, Katelyn Bares, at katelyn.bares@vpsb.net.