In May 1977, the governing bodies of three professional organizations concerned with vocational home economics education (the American Home Economics Association, the American Vocational Association, and the Home Economics Education Association) formed a coalition. Consisting of two representatives of each organization, the coalition has as its primary objective to increase communication and project a unified thrust and focus on issues related to vocational home economics education. This statement outlines the coalition's main tenets pertaining to the scope and definition of vocational home economics education. The coalition's operating guidelines are enumerated. Next, vocational home economics education is defined as education that prepares males and females for (1) the occupation of homemaking and (2) paid employment in home economics occupations. The scope and significance of the occupation of homemaking and home economics occupations are examined. Covered next are the funding and structure of vocational home economics and current funding needs. The rationale for homemaking education is discussed. Current and proposed structures for funding and developing a delivery system for vocational home economics education are set forth. The history of federal involvement in vocational home economics education is summarized. The final three sections deal with the preparation of teachers and leaders, competencies needed by vocational home economics educators, and their responsibility for professional development. (MN)