Seven new local San Saba High School FCCLA officers traveled to Dallas, Texas on September 25-26 to receive special training with over 300 other students at the downtown Sheraton in Dallas.

The conference was centered on learning what the role of peer educator is and examined issues facing youth on topics such as: school violence, financial literacy, teen safe driving, childhood obesity, and environmental issues.

Each member that attended also received very specific training on how to prepare and give public speeches and presentation to help them become better leaders. Their main presenter and trainer was Rhett Laubach, who has worked with students all over the country, helping them discover the secrets of public speaking. They listened and participated in many activities to help build their skills.

This powerful program also certified attendees as "peer educators" and provided them with resources and materials to help conduct training to more youth here in San Saba in each of the program areas.

These new "Peer Educators" hope to create and implement programs throughout this school year to spread the message about the importance of these types of issues. Aaron Krueger participated in the Teen Driving, hopes to help spread the message of how important it is for students to pay attention and follow the laws that are made to help protect student drivers. Gennie Hamilton and Wesley Gates received training on childhood obesity and plan to help students make better choices with their eating and exercise habits. Morgan Jimenez and Marissa Anaya learned about bullying and the different type of bullying that occurs. They would like to educate fellow classmates on how much we effect others with our words and actions. Marissa Anaya said "This was a really good experience and was my first time to Dallas. It was fun and I learned a lot." Savanah Rios and Maloree Ramos sharpened their skills on Financial Fitness. Knowing how to save money, use money effectively, and being prepared for life on your own is always an important topic for teenagers. Too many times students leave for the world of work but don’t have a clue about bills, finances, and general financial needs. These students hope to prepare those who are planning on graduating from high school for the realities of life.

FCCLA offers a wide variety of leadership experiences and opportunities for students throughout the year. Mrs. Rogers, the San Saba High School FCCLA advisor, said "These types of leadership programs and activities are so important for today’s youth. For several students this is not just a chance to meet other students and to travel to new places, but become something greater than they expected.

Marissa Anaya, Morgan Jimenez, Gennie Hamilton, Maloree Ramos, Savanah Rios, Wesley Gates, and Aaron Krueger at the downtown Dallas Sheraton for Peer Education training.