Family and Consumer Sciences is a discipline composed of strong subject matter concentrations with a commitment to integration. Concepts form a framework for learning based on these tenets:
- Families are the fundamental unit of society.
- A life-span approach to individual and family development contributes to creating lifelong learners.
- Meeting individual and family needs inside and outside the home are shared responsibilities.
- Individual, family and community well-being is strengthened through an awareness of diversity.
- The use of diverse modes of inquiry strengthens intellectual development.
- The content learning in Family and Consumer Sciences classes enhances the mastery of academic standards.
- Standards-based learning within Family and Consumer Sciences classrooms can best be demonstrated through performance based assessment.
The Family and Consumer Science curriculum of the South Western School District is based on the Pennsylvania Department of Education Academic Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences. This curriculum supports the development of the knowledge and skills that students need as family members, both now and in the future. Learners in Family and Consumer Sciences nurture themselves and others, taking increased responsibility for improving their quality of living.
The Academic Standards for Family and Consumer Sciences are written to empower individuals and families to manage the challenges of living and working in a diverse, global society. These Academic Standards address the functioning of families and their interrelationships with work, community, and society. The focus is on the reoccurring, practical problems of individuals and families. An integrative approach is used to help individuals and families identify, create, and evaluate goals and alternative solutions to significant problems of everyday life. Students are taught to take responsibility for the consequences of their actions. Comprehensive classroom experiences allow students to develop the knowledge and skills needed in making choices to meet their personal, family, and work responsibilities.