FCCLA is adapting to the current COVID-19 predicament by participating in a virtual state leadership conference. At a usual SLC event, students would experience an award ceremony, a dance with other FCCLAs across Nevada and the opportunity to present their events in person. 

“Obviously I do wish I had the opportunity to go,” junior Franchesca Ramirez said. “This was my first year in FCCLA and the state conference, from what I had observed, looked really fun. I joined FCCLA so that I could compete in these events so it’s a little different now, but I’m still glad to be here.”

The conference for FCCLA consists of students preparing a skill or presentation for an event such as: Job Interviews, Fashion Design, or Knife Skills. Students also have the ability to sign up for up to two events. 

“We want to make sure that even though we’re online and it’s a little harder, we still get as many students as possible to participate in state,” junior Brooke Young, vice president of competitive events, said. “State does look a little different but it’s still the same experience. Preparing these events is part of being in FCCLA, so although we’re sad that we can’t go in person, we still want to make the most of what we have.”

In order to prepare, students in the same events are breaking into groups and ensuring progress by asking questions and helping each other out through the process. 

“Working together is a large part of what we do,” Young said. “Even though events themselves are largely individual, when you compare with people and ask questions and work among each other, it’s a lot easier to get things done.”

All events will be after school from March 8-10 so students do not miss any classes. 

“FCCLA is a great experience,” Shannon Sheldon, FCCLA adviser, said. “Just because we’re doing it online doesn’t mean it’s any different. At the end of the day, we want to teach students these leadership and public speaking skills, and that’s what they’re getting, albeit virtually.”