Tattnall County High School (TCHS) Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) members impressed the Tattnall County Board of Education (BOE) members at their Monday, August 28, 2023, meeting with the presentation of their winning projects at the state level.  These state wins advanced them to the National Leadership Conference in Denver, Colorado, in July where they showcased their winning projects. Those FCCLA members attending the meeting included Molly Thompson, Saige Collins, Ellie Floyd, Ava Johnson, Madison Page, Mikayla Howell, Bentlee Sikes, Audrey Graham, and Jency Thompson.

Molly, Jency, and Ellie competed in Chapter in Review Portfolio, which is a showcase of the school chapter leadership, service activities, fundraising, and projects. They reported that they had compiled a big book that showcased their activities, and the process helped them with their organizational skills.

Saige and Audrey competed in Focus on Children, and their project was called "Warriors on the Bus." It was a literacy project, and they partnered with Superintendent Dr. Kristen Waters. This included encouraging children to read by distributing books at parades, festivals, and other events at the schools. Overall, 6000 books were distributed in parades and 200 to pre-k children. Buses were used at events as a walk-through library/giveaway, with 12,000 books given away at these. 

Mikayla, Bentlee, and Madison competed in Chapter Service Project portfolio. They planned and executed Warrior Olympics and completed preliminary activities with the students to build relationships with them and test potential events for the Warrior Olympics in April. These students reported that they were made more aware of those with disabilities, and the event made these individuals feel special in a good way. The project included a field day type event with games, bouncy houses, and various stations in which the students could participate.

Ava competed in Job Interview, where she prepared a portfolio for potential employers. She was then interviewed by judges rather than giving a presentation. She commented that the project included a cover letter and résumé, which she said was a good experience for her.

FCCLA advisors are Daphne Richardson and Kylie Tucker, and Tucker explained the competitive opportunities within the organization, which are designed to showcase students' skills and talents in various areas related to family and consumer sciences.

"These events provide a platform for students to demonstrate their proficiency in areas such as culinary arts, fashion design, event planning, interior design, leadership, public speaking, and more," said Tucker.

"STAR is an acronym for Students Taking Action with Recognition, and participants engage in projects and presentations that align with specific event categories, allowing them to apply their knowledge and abilities in practical and meaningful ways. STAR events promote critical thinking, creativity, and leadership development, while also fostering teamwork and communication skills. Judges evaluate participants based on established criteria, setting goals, and putting plans into action while forming partnerships with youth and community members and organizations. Outstanding performances can lead to recognition and awards at local, state, and national levels within the FCCLA organization," explained Tucker.

Last year, Tattnall FCCLA had 13 members compete in seven project areas at Region STAR events. Region 9 covers 22 counties, and only the top two in each category may advance to State.

"All TCHS competitors achieved this honor and competed at the State Leadership Conference in Athens, along with two additional teams who submitted online projects. These young ladies here today are among those who advanced to the National Leadership Conference. Two other competitors from TCHS advanced but were unable to attend the conference. These were Elana Yancey with her Chapter Service Project Portfolio and Aubrey Poole with her Digital Story for Change," added Tucker.

In closing, she commended the students for their diligence, often reaching out of their comfort zones for assistance, and time management and accountability that they all exhibited in reaching this advancement to the national level.

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