Kaitlyn Roberts is the first CISD student to qualify for nationals in the Early Childhood Education division and her second-place finish is the district’s top individual performance, ever—which earned her up to $40,000 in college scholarships.
“It was an honor to be selected among the top three in the nation, and then to earn second place was incredible,” Roberts said. “I look forward to competing in a different category next year and expanding my knowledge and leadership skills.”
Roberts competed in the Level 3-Early Childhood Education Division, where she advanced through three levels before making it to nationals. Her winning submission was a portfolio that demonstrated the knowledge and skills gained through her enrollment in an occupational early childhood program. She also delivered an oral presentation and activity related to lesson planning.
“As the child of an educator, I see the hard work and dedication it takes to truly make a difference in the lives of students,” Roberts said. “My teacher, Mrs. Harrell, and my mom have been incredibly supportive and helpful throughout this learning experience.”
FCCLA provides competitive events at district, regional, state and national levels. Contests are designed for students to demonstrate proficiency in leadership skills, career preparation and advocacy for positive change.
Members choose from more than 50 competitions that apply skills and knowledge gained through Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education. Leslie Harrell teaches FCS classes at Crandall HS and accompanied Roberts to nationals.
“We have the opportunity to prepare our students for career success through the pathways and courses taught within our FCS curriculum,” Harrell said. “It is amazing that, as high schoolers, our Pirates can explore things that interest them now, and gain legitimate experience working in a field they may want to pursue after graduation. Kaitlyn has done an amazing job competing—and winning—at the regional, state and national levels.”
CISD has sent four previous student teams to the national conference, producing three gold-medal finishes and one silver.
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