The Valdosta Daily Times
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Home economics once meant sewing, cooking, child development, family finances, and food nutrition. It was once a subject taught solely to young women in high school.
Home economics was designed to prepare female students in the art of managing a household.
Through the years, the name has changed. Home economics is now referred to by names such as Family and Consumer Sciences.
Not only has the name changed, but so has the intent of these classes, according to the story that readers will find in today’s editions of The Times.
Some of the basic subjects remain the same. Students can find classes such as interior design, culinary arts, food sciences, nutrition and wellness.
Students can apply what they learn to their personal lives, but these classes are designed so students can prepare for potential careers.
Think of it as home ecomomics for the business world. These classes prepare students for furthering their educations as well as readies them for the hands-on possibilities of immediate work after high school.
Where home economics once emphasized matters such as table manners, these new classes stress work ethic and how to behave on the job.
The principles of home economics are being applied to creating a savvier work force. And that can create a stronger economy for area households and the entire region.
