Plainview Public Schools Logo

FCCLA at Distirct Leadership Conference

October 23, 2011

“Just Keep Leading…” was the theme of the FCCLA District 8 Leadership Conference held October 19th at the Lifelong Learning Center in Norfolk.  Thirty-two FCCLA members and adviser Ronita Jacobsen attended the daylong event that provided members much information about developing leadership skills, preparing for college and careers, and how to cope a variety of life events.  Lovay Wells, a former FCCLA member and Plainview Graduate, also attended the event as a sponsor and Creed Speaking Judge.

Keynote speaker for the conference was Justin Lookadoo who spoke to members on “Are You Dateable?”. Members were provided with much information and tips for having successful relationships.  This session was very much a highlight for students and led to much discussion later on “high school dating relationships”, “not compromising yourself”, “stand up and be a man”, “responding to bullying”, “just get out now if…”,   and several other key points from his presentation.

Following the keynote, members had the opportunity to attend several small group sessions.  Three members had the opportunity to tour the Nursing College and found the simulation rooms to be the highlight of the tour.  Other members had opportunities to attend sessions on “Education Quest” by Brad Brown, “My Life Adventure” by Hannah Wright, “STAR Events” by Laura Lueninghoener, “Find Your Place in an FCS Career” by Sheree Moser, and “Yoga/Pilates” by Tina Collison.  

Roundtable sessions were also available for students to attend throughout the morning.  Members heard presentations from State Peer Education officers on the Peer Programs of Families First, Student Body, and Financial Fitness.  State Officers also presented information on programs to members. Fun and learning was had by all during the roundtable sessions!

During the opening ceremony Heidi Orano was installed as a District Officer and then proceeded with other district officers to conduct the rest of the conference.

 During the Closing Ceremony, Heidi Orona announced the results of the “Soles for Goals” District Outreach Project.  By the end of the day, it was reported that several hundred pairs of new or gently worn shoes had been donated.  At the close of the conference, Plainview students loaded the boxes of shoes onto the bus filling the bottom storage portion of the bus along with a few seats.  Orphan Grain Train was surprised, excited, and overwhelmed with the generous donation and repeatedly thanked the FCCLA members and sent along thanks to the other participating schools.

Earlier in the day, Natalie Lingenfelter represented the Plainview chapter in the Creed speaking contest where she recited the creed from memory and gave a 3-5 minute speech on what the creed means to her.  She received 2nd place and presented her speech to all DLC attendees during the Closing Ceremony.  President Kelsey Cattell represented the chapter as the voting delegate during the State Officer Candidate Interviews.  Kesley Cattell was recognized for completing three modules of Power of One:  “Working on Working”, “Take the Lead”, and “Speak Out for FCCLA”.  Carissa Pollock, 2011 graduate, was also recognized for completing all five Power of One units during the 2009-2010 school year.

Throughout the day students had the opportunity to purchase tickets for a drawing of themed baskets.  Money from the baskets is used to help support students who attend national convention.  The conference concluded with the drawing of door prizes and bucket auction baskets of which several members were recipients.

FCCLA is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by student members.  It is the only Career and Technical Student Organization with the family as its central focus.  Participation in national programs and chapter activities helps members become strong leaders in their families, careers, and communities.