Dear Board of Education:

It is our understanding that for the second year, the Family Consumer
Sciences program in St. Mary's County is under review for continuation.  The American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences strongly urges you to consider the many benefits, both tangible and intangible, to students' participation in this program, not the least of which is the emphasis on core subject areas, including reading!   We are committed to and passionate about preparing students to live effectively as individuals, contribute to a functional family, and be a positive force within their communities. Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) courses are an essential part of both the middle high school curricula.   Family and consumer sciences courses reinforce the theories, principles, and practices of the basic academic courses of math, social studies, science, reading and writing. FCS courses tie these domains of knowledge together in an integrated manner to address the knowledge and practical skills needed by every student. FCS courses take a holistic approach to the individual, family and community.

We all recognize the value of requiring courses in math, science,
composition, literature, etc. Too frequently, other courses are viewed
as electives and, therefore, less important than these core courses.
AAFCS believes this is a narrow and short-sighted viewpoint. Just
imagine for a minute.....

What if a high school graduate can understand basic chemistry or even the premises of quantum physics but not be able to balance a checkbook or craft a budget to live within his or her means?

What if the high school graduate can reach and comprehend Tolstoy but can't follow directions on how to prepare a meal or even know the basis elements of a nutritionally balanced meal?

What if a student can solve algebra problems but not know the first thing about being a responsible parent?

What if the high school graduate can write a compelling theme paper but can't prepare a resume or write a business letter?

The list of questions could go on, but I think the point has been made.
Pure academics without the integration of basic life knowledge and
skills classes fall woefully short of preparing a student for the
realities of higher education, lifelong learning, employment, and family
life.

Family and consumer sciences courses are critically needed NOW!   We
live in an era when childhood obesity has become a national problem and so threatens the health of people, that the future attendant increased healthcare costs and decreased capacity to work or serve in the military will affect the national economy and the nation's security.  Family and consumer sciences addresses this issue with students and deals with issue prospectively!

We live in a time when more parents are in the workforce and in need of quality child care, yet we lack a qualified child care workforce.
Family and consumer sciences addresses this issue with students and
deals with issue prospectively!

We live in a time of increasing financial challenges and decreasing
financial literacy so worrisome that Chairman Greenspan and Maryland's Senator Sarbanes are supporting legislation to increase financial literacy across the lifespan.  Family and consumer sciences addresses this issue with students and deals with issue prospectively!

We live in an era when it's federal policy to support marriage and
relationship education because so many American's lack those skills.
Family and consumer sciences addresses this issue with students and
deals with issue prospectively!

In short, the very core concepts taught by FCS are receiving increasing
national attention with accompanying increased funds for implementation.

The ONLY choice for the St. Mary's County Board of Education is to
continue their Family Consumer Sciences education program. The county's youth and their families deserve nothing less from your leadership.

 Sincerely yours,