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    ​​Certification Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPGs)

    ​CSPG 44 - Family and Consumer Sciences, PK-12

    ​Instructional Area Code 5600
    Modified: August 17, 2023

    Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) is a field of study focused on the science and art of living and working well in our complex world including but not limited to family and consumer sciences, career exploration, community and family connections, consumer and family resource management, parenting and child development, food, nutritional and wellness, as well as family and interpersonal relationships.

    Grade Level Scope of Certificate

    A person holding a valid PA certificate for Family and Consumer Sciences is qualified to teach family and consumer sciences related courses in grades PK-12.

    Certification Assignment

    An educator holding a valid PA certificate for family and consumer science is qualified to teach family and consumer sciences, career exploration, community and family connections, consumer and family resources management, parenting and child development, food, nutrition and wellness, as well as family and interpersonal relationships.  The FCS-certified educator may also teach career and technical education related family and consumer sciences programs.

    Certificate Clarification

    The former PA public school certificate Home Economics is still valid to teach family and consumer economics. 

    Special Considerations

    An educator certified in this field may:

    • Provide school staff development services regarding their collegial studies;
    • Serve in the role of mentor or advisor; and
    • May assist students in understanding reading content area materials. 

    Restrictions

    A certificate in Family and Consumer Sciences does not qualify the holder to teach (for assignment) N-3 classrooms as an Early Childhood teacher.

    References

    Program Specific Guidelines for Family and Consumer Sciences Certification

    PA Public School Code: §1202, §1212, §1604

    22 PA Code: Chapter 4: §4.22, §4.23, §4.31

    Chapter 49: §49.11, §49.81

    This revision supersedes all earlier CSPGs carrying this number and/or addressing this subject. Previous printing dates on this subject: 1973, 3/75, 3/78, 2/82, 1/87, 7/04.

    Summary of Changes

    Date of RevisionsMajor Changes to CSPG #44
    ​8/17/2023
    		​Updated terminology and formatting
    9/1/2019
    		Updated grade scope for consistency and clarification.