Our History

Honoring Our Roots: The History of WA-FACSE & Our Partnership with WA-ACTE

Since our founding, the Washington Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Educators (WA-FACSE) has played a vital role in advancing Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education across the state. As a proud section of Washington ACTE (WA-ACTE), our history is deeply connected to the larger movement of Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Washington.

Our First President: Carol Mooney (1970–1971)

WA-FACSE’s recorded history begins with our first listed president, Carol Mooney, who served from 1970 to 1971. Her leadership marked the start of a formal structure that would evolve over decades to meet the changing needs of FCS educators and the communities they serve.

Formerly Known As...

Before becoming WA-FACSE, our organization was known as the Home and Family Life section of the Washington Vocational Association. As the state’s approach to CTE expanded, so did our mission. In step with WA-ACTE, we have adapted to reflect broader educational goals and a commitment to preparing students for real-world success through FCS.

Organizational Milestones

• Updated Constitution & Bylaws: November 2011

• Achieved 501(c)(3) Status: September 19, 2024 — A major step in strengthening our nonprofit foundation and long-term sustainability.

Why This Matters for WA-FACSE: As WA-FACSE continues to grow its presence, influence, and programming (like professional development, scholarships, and FCCLA support), having 501(c)(3) status makes the organization more resilient, fundable, and future-ready. It’s not just a tax status — it’s a foundation for sustainability and impact.

• Board Photos & Archives:

  • Spring 2019, 2022, and 2023 Newsletters include board photos

  • Winter 2011 Newsletter offers a glimpse into earlier leadership and programming

These artifacts serve as a reminder of our evolution — not only as an organization but as a dynamic community of educators committed to innovation, advocacy, and connection.

The Power of Partnership

Throughout our history, WA-FACSE has walked in lockstep with WA-ACTE. From legislative advocacy to professional development, our shared goals have amplified our voice and shaped policy and practice statewide. Many of the significant shifts in our structure or focus originated from broader CTE initiatives led by WA-ACTE — changes we embraced to remain aligned and impactful.

Looking Ahead

This new History section of our website is dedicated to preserving and honoring our past while inspiring our future. We invite members, past and present, to help us continue building this archive. If you have photos, stories, or materials that capture WA-FACSE’s journey, we’d love to include them.

Let’s celebrate where we’ve been — and keep shaping where we’re going.
WA-FACSE: Rooted in tradition. Driven by purpose. Connected for success.