School might be out for summer, but not for two New Castle Career Center students. Emmalee Wilkerson of Knightstown High School and Adam Nadler of Hagerstown High School spent a portion of their summer gearing up for the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Leadership Conference held in Anaheim, California. Both students placed first at the state level, guaranteeing them a spot at the national conference.

FCCLA is a national student organization that helps young men and women become leaders and address important personal, family, work, and societal issues through Family and Consumer Sciences education. Emmalee competed with her “Early Childhood Education” project, while Adam showcased his “Teach and Train” project.

While in Anaheim, the students made sure they had a little fun while working. In between competing and general sessions they were able to spend a day at Disneyland and take a chartered bus tour of Hollywood. During a morning swim they even experienced an earthquake that shook their world.

“Attending FCCLA National Conference was such a great experience for both Emilee and Adam,” Leesa Meyers, Education Careers Instructor, explained. “Since they are both juniors, I am excited for them to return next year. I can’t wait to see the confidence and leadership they extend to the younger students.”

During the awards ceremony, everyone came out a winner. Both Emilee and Adam received silver medals for their projects. Leesa also received the FCCLA Spirit Advising Award for demonstrating excellence in modeling FCCLA character in helping students achieve success. This success was shown firsthand by how successful her students were at the national level.

“I feel extremely honored to have received this award,” Meyers noted. “It’s always nice to be recognized for making a positive impact.”