Dallas, Texas. – Over 700 members and advisors attended the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America’s (FCCLA) Peer Education Conference held October 10-11, 2010 in Dallas, Texas. Blanco High School was represented by six local officers and members: Ashley Alexander, Chelsea San Miguel, Erika Martinez, Rachel York, Riki Cole, Teresa Collins, and Amy Petri, advisor.

The state conference centered on learning what the role of a peer educator is and examined issues facing youth: school violence, financial literacy, alcohol poisoning, childhood obesity, and environmental issues.

This powerful program will certify attendees as peer educators and provide them with resources and materials to be successful when conducting their training. Ashley, Chelsea, Erika, Rachel, Riki, and Teresa also have the opportunity to provide peer education training on these areas in their community to elementary, middle, and secondary students.

Members are planning to create educational posters, brochures, a skit, a video, and invite guest speakers to inform students on both topics. There are several non-profit foundations the members may contact to have a representative speak locally to FCCLA members, the student body, and possibly community members.

FCCLA: The Ultimate Leadership Experience is a dynamic and effective national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences Education. FCCLA has nearly 220,000 members and over 6,500 chapters from 50 state associations and the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The organization has involved more than ten million youth since its founding in 1945. There are over 18,000 members in Texas.

FCCLA is unique among youth organizations because its programs are planned and run by members. It is the only career and technical in-school 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.