Local FCCLA Members Selected for Missouri Legislative Shadowing Project
Zac Acheson, a sophomore at Cassville High School and Mary Hayse, a senior at Cassville High School participated in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Legislative Shadowing Project on Wednesday, February 5-6, 2019. Samantha Cosper is the local chapter adviser and accompanied the students to Jefferson City. Sponsored by the Missouri Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), the program provides an opportunity for junior and senior high school students to spend a day with their state representative, senator, or other public official at the State Capitol. The students observe hearings, meetings, and other public duties. Zac had the privilege of shadowing John Ashcroft, Secretary of State while Mary had the privilege of shadowing Senator Bill White. Both students were able to spend some time with recently appointed State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick
The Legislative Shadowing Project, now in its 19th year, is conducted by Missouri FCCLA, the Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) for Family and Consumer Sciences Education. A reception and opening session was held for participants on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 Tours of the Governor’s Mansion, State Capitol and Supreme Court Building also were provided.
The Legislative Shadowing Project allows students to connect their interests in law, public service, civic issues and the political process with their education. The event is designed to help students develop a better understanding of the political process and its impact on citizens.
FCCLA attempts to match students with officials from their local school districts wherever possible. The students prepare for the event by becoming familiar with their official’s responsibilities and current issues. If matched with a legislator, the student becomes knowledgeable about the bills introduced and committees on which the legislator serves.
FCCLA is a nonprofit student organization for young men and women, grades 6-12, in family consumer sciences education. Missouri FCCLA has more than 9,500 members in nearly 330 local chapters, making it the fifth-largest FCCLA state association in the nation.