Centennial High School students Neerul Gupta and Rahmah Isa earned gold medals this summer at the Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) National Leadership Conference. The pair achieved a perfect score in the Illustrated Talk-Senior category in the FCCLA's National Star Event Competition.

“The girls started work on their project early in the 2018-19 school year and were dedicated throughout the process,” said Aneesha Jackson, the Centennial 2018-19 FCCLA co-advisor. “They set a goal and did a phenomenal job executing their vision.” 

Gupta and Isa’s Illustrated Talk was on the topic of vaping. Their goal was to instruct educators on what they can do to help students who are struggling with vaping. They followed the prescribed FCCLA planning process, including:

• Identifying Concerns

• Setting a Goal

• Forming a Plan

• Acting Upon the Plan

• Following Up

“The ladies presented to our Administrative staff, as well as our Campus Improvement Team,” said Alicia Maphies, Centennial High School principal. “Their presentation was informative and valuable in ensuring that students, administration and our parent partners are on the same page regarding the impact of vaping on students, as well as methods to battle this epidemic amongst teenagers in our country.“

In addition to Gupta and Isa’s achievement, Aneesha Jackson was honored at the Adult Award Recognition Session for completing the 2018-19 FCCLA National Advisor Academy. Jackson was the only Texas advisor to be honored for this award. 

“I would encourage all students who are interested in being involved in the community and interested in team-building and leadership to look into FCCLA on their campus,” Jackson said. “It’s the only career and technical in-school student organization with a central focus on careers that support families. Participation in national FCCLA programs and chapter activities helps members become strong leaders in their families, careers and communities.”

During the 2018-19 academic school year, Frisco Centennial FCCLA was led by three Family and Consumer Science teachers Sheila Hooten, Aneesha Jackson and Kathy Jones.

Thank you to these teachers for their expertise and leadership that paved the way for students to excel in leadership opportunities.