Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) at OHS took home the silver medals at the recent state competition.

    On March 17-19, three students traveled to Tan-Tar-A Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks for FCCLA state. Megan Miller (12) for Career Investigation, Kayla Jackson (11) for Life Event Planning, and Megan Blanchard (10) for Fashion Construction all competed after qualifying for state at the regional competition on Jan. 22.

    “I was extremely nervous due to the fact that this was my first time going to state,” Jackson said. “I didn’t know what type of questions to expect from the judges and the competition itself was a lot to take in.”

    A major difference between regionals and state is how the presentations are organized.

    “When I was at state there was at least 20 other contestants in the same room presenting to their judges,” Jackson said. “There was most definitely a lot more going on around you but you had to zone in on your judges and give them your best shot.”

    Regardless, the students put on their best presentation and all received a silver rating.

    “I am so proud of them for so many reasons,” said FCCLA sponsor Mrs. Jamie Daughaday. “They all worked so hard and truly deserved to be at State.”

    The trio agreed that one of the most positive aspects of the weekend was the group bonding.

    “The most exciting part of state was getting closer to the other girls that went with me,” said Blanchard.

    They were also accompanied by a special guest.

    “He had to make the trip last year when my sitter ended up in the hospital,” said Mrs. Daughaday, referring to her son. “(The girls) asked if he could come again this year as their good luck charm.”

    Daughaday’s pride for her students is fitting for the occasion.

    “When the students get their awards is always a special moment,” she said. “They have worked so hard and deserve to be rewarded.”