Secondary vocational-technical education programs in Mississippi are faced with many challenges resulting from sweeping educational reforms at the national and state levels. Schools and teachers are increasingly being held accountable for providing true learning activities to every student in the classroom. This accountability is measured through increased requirements for mastery and attainment of competency as documented through both formative and summative assessments. The courses in this document reflect the statutory requirements as found in Section 37-3-49, Mississippi Code of 1972, as amended (Section 37-3-46). In addition, this curriculum reflects guidelines imposed by federal and state mandates (Laws, 1988, ch. 487, Section 14; Laws, 1991, ch. 423, Section 1; Laws, 1992, ch. 519, Section 4 effective from and after July 1, 1992; Carl D. Perkins Vocational Education Act III, 1998; and No Child Left Behind Act of 2001). Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education in Mississippi consists of the CORE program and specific occupational programs. The CORE program prepares students for living in the real world and helps them develop leadership, problem-solving, decision-making, critical thinking, communication, computer, and mathematical skills. The specific occupational programs focus on career exploration and gaining the skills in a specific profession for entry-level employment or continuation of education. FCS education enhances the leadership potential and essential life skills of its students and encourages life-long learning. Appended are: (1) National Family and Consumer Science Skill Standards; (2) Health Standards; (3) Academic Standards; (4) 21st Century Skills; and (5) Rubrics. (Contains 7 footnotes.)