Mission Statement:
The mission of the Home Economics Careers and Technology Unit is to provide high quality leadership and assistance to California high schools in order to improve student performance and to prepare studetns to be positive, productive members of families, the workforce, and the golobal community.
Home economics careers and technology education
has changed over the past thirty years!
Where home economics courses in the 50's were more narrowly focused, reflecting the "traditional" structure of society, modern home economics careers and technology courses reflect the changing social and economic patterns of the 90s.
Consumer and Family Studies curriculum is concentrated on seven content areas, each of which teach personal, family, and work management skills, as well as provide a sound background for career exploration and specialization in home economics related occupations.
Child Development and Guidance
The changing role of the family unit---for example, the prevalence of dual income families and single parent---has resulted in an even greater need to provide information about raising healthy, happy children. Home economics careers and technology teaches prenatal care, child growth and development, learning and self-esteem development, and health care.
Consumer Education
Our multifaceted society requires us to be informed, educated consumers. Consumer and Family Studies provides a strong foundation of consumer skills, including occupational goals, job search and employability skills, financial planning, economic security, purchasing and sales information, and consumer rights and responsibilities.
Food and Nutrition
Home economics careers and technology courses offer instruction in nutrition; physical fitness and health; meal planning, preparation and service; resource conservation; comparison shopping; and other food and nutrition-related decisions.
Individual and Family Health
Today's youth face numerous social and health decisions. Home economics courses provide information on personal goals relating to health and happiness, well-being, self-esteem and physical health as well as the behaviors which affect personal health such as substance abuse, health maintenance, and injury prevention and treatment.
Fashion, Textiles and Apparel
California is recognized as an international fashion center. Home economics careers and technology students learn about the relationship between budgets and purchases, design and wardrobe planning, and construction, care and repair of clothing.
Family Living and Parenting Education
The family unit is the cornerstone of society. Home economics careers and technology students study family dynamics and responsibilities, how to deal with conflict and crisis, communication skills, interpersonal relationships in social and work settings, and how to balance personal, family and work roles for more satisfying family and work lives.
Housing and Furnishings
Our home environment is a reflection of our personal taste, as well as management of our personal lives. Home economics careers and technology teaches practical skills regarding the economics of housing decisions, conservation and energy; the principles and elements of design; and quality and economic considerations in selecting furnishings.