Grand Junction High School students competed in state for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).
This year, 13 GJHS students went to state, and 11 out of 13 won bronze, silver or gold. The winners were GJHS seniors Aiden Innis, Patien Brown, Felicia Martinez, Cassidy Posta and Cheyanna Ruppelius. GJHS juniors who won include Kaydence Sanislo, Kambelle Hotard, Ellery Barney, Abigail Creel, Jolie Trinklein, Grace Horney, and Peyton McKinley. GJHS sophomore Leia Robinson was the only underclassman winner.
“I think the state competition went really great. We had fun the first day there, but all I care about and expect from everyone is to have fun. They have worked hard to qualify for nationals, and it is such an experience to have; they deserve to enjoy it,” said Martinez.
According to GJHS Family and Consumer Science teacher Jennifer Campwell-Wilson, students prepared for State this year by choosing a passion project, reading carefully through rubrics, and preparing a project that meets the requirements. Students then practice their presentations repeatedly until they are confident to present in front of judges. Students prepare for Nationals by looking through feedback on their projects from the judges at State and refining their projects. We also do a lot of fundraising to pay for the trips, e.g., yard sales, chocolate bar sales, babysitting nights, etc.
In the last three years, six GJHS students have gone to Nationals. Those going this year include senior Alyssa Johnston, Innis, McKinley, Hotard and Robinson.
“For the state, it was a lot of making sure my documents were all complete and practicing my script for my presentation. The workload was a little overwhelming, but it was 100% do-able,” said Robinson.
FCCLA has been a part of schools across the country since 1945. Since the current advisors are FCCLA advisor Sarah Keen and Campwell-Wilson, the team has made the finals for the past ten years.
“One of the things I love most about FCCLA Competitive Events is that these events showcase just how diverse and engaging student learning can be. Whether it’s entrepreneurship, sports nutrition, fashion, repurpose, redesign or culinary. What makes Family, Career and Community Leaders of America so unique is that students get to dive into projects they’re genuinely passionate about, turning their interests into real-world skills and meaningful accomplishments,” said Campbell-Wilson.
Nationals will be in Washington, DC on July 5-11.
