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Family and Consumer Science returns to Laconia Middle School with new program and community ties
Summary
Teachers and students showcased a revived Family and Consumer Science program at Laconia Middle School that covers nutrition, financial literacy, career exploration and cooking; the board and community members offered support and volunteer offers.
Laconia Middle School teacher Tiffany Dubey presented a student-produced showcase of the Family and Consumer Science program during the Feb. 12 Laconia School Board meeting, saying the course has returned to the middle school with lessons in nutrition, financial literacy, career exploration and cooking.
Dubey told the board she has taught in education for 23 years and designed the middle‑school curriculum from scratch. The presentation included short student testimonials and a video showing students working on kitchen safety, meal preparation and budgeting tips.
Why it matters: Board members and community volunteers said the skills taught in the course — cooking, household budgeting and career exposure — are life skills that can help students make healthier and more economical choices. Principal Hayward attended the meeting in support of the program.
During the presentation Dubey described classroom activities and field experiences. Sixth‑grade students visited Covered Bridge Farm Table in Camden to meet a chef and a business owner; Dubey said that trip exposed students to restaurant careers and included a multi‑course meal. Board members and community attendees suggested other local businesses — Village Bakery, Wayfair and All My Life Jewelers were named by a board member — that might host field trips or offer behind‑the‑scenes visits.
The course covers four units so far this school year: nutrition, financial literacy, college and career exploration and cooking; Dubey said she hopes to add sewing and other modules next year. She told the board seventh‑ and eighth‑grade students are scheduled for a semester (18 weeks) in the class, while sixth graders take a quarter (9 weeks).
Several students who participated in the class gave brief on‑camera testimonials included in the presentation, describing what they learned and what they enjoyed. Dubey also invited local businesses and volunteers to contact her about partnerships and donations.
Board members and attendees praised the program; a board member noted the importance of experiential learning and thanked local businesses that have already participated. No formal board action was required for the presentation.
