VATFACS recognizes Industry and Administrators

At the VATFACS 2011 Institute awards were given to recognize people outside the FACS profession who have been instrumental in our programs success. The Outstanding Business and Industry and Outstanding Administrator Awards give VATFACS the opportunity to let the community know that their efforts are important in our students success.

The VATFACS Outstanding Business and Industry Award is presented to business and industry partners throughout the state that support family and consumer sciences programs. 

Mr. Van Noland and Ms. Sherita White of Wachovia Bank provided interactive, division-wide staff development for 48 FACS teachers in Henrico County at no cost to the school system.  The presentation focused on HANDS ON BANKING resources available to educators free of charge.  In addition, these representatives visited several Family and Consumer classrooms to teach teens about budgeting and banking services.  They assist Family and Consumer Sciences teachers in meeting course competencies related to Financial Literacy and ultimately prepare students for success in the area of Financial Literacy.

The Outstanding Administrator Award is given to administrators who have shown consistent support for family and consumer science programs.  Administrators may include building principals, local family and consumer sciences supervisors, and career and technical education directors.

Mr. Ronald Rodriguez, Principal of Henrico High School since 2008, has worked consistently to support family and consumer sciences programs within the school.  Most recently Mr. Rodriguez supported the school’s Intro to Culinary Arts class by permitting students to showcase their talents at staff meetings and community functions.  The program doubled in size from 2 sections to 4.  Impressed with the FACS students, Mr. Rodriguez has fought to offer Culinary Arts I at Henrico High, a course traditionally only offered at the county’s technical centers.  Upon learning of the cost in renovations required to offer Culinary I, Mr. Rodriguez again supported FACS teachers and against common practice secured the use of the campus cafeteria until funding could be secured and renovations made.  In the words of his nominator, Ms. Adrienne Lambert, “Mr. Rodriguez has truly worked hard to provide us with the resources for a sterling program.  Henrico High School students are now able to build the skills necessary to help them find a rewarding career in the Family and Consumer Sciences field.”