2024-2025 NEC NECA Handbook

Chapter 1 – Running for National Office

• Running for national office is a challenge and opportunity to learn and strengthen skills.
• Success is not measured by titles but by personal satisfaction.
• National officer role requires time and responsibility.
• FCCLA must be the top priority for a year, potentially conflicting with other activities.
• Benefits often outweigh the sacrifices.
• Read election documents on the FCCLA website.
• Learn about FCCLA and FCS education from www.fcclainc.org.
• Contact past officers/candidates for advice (but current officers cannot offer advice due to voting responsibilities).
• Discuss commitments with school administrators, state adviser, chapter adviser, and parents.
• Commitment is crucial; dropping out affects many people.
• National officers must relinquish other local, regional, and state offices in FCCLA and other CTSOs.
• Practice quick thinking, answering questions, and expressing ideas.
• Neat, professional appearance is important.
• Work with the 2023-2024 National Executive Council, other candidates, the NOC Nominating Committee, and Voting Delegates.
• Check emails regularly for schedules, responsibilities, and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Active member in an affiliated chapter for at least one year.
• Minimum of one year of Family and Consumer Sciences classes.
• Approval of state association.
• Not a present or former member of the National Executive Council.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA (non-weighted) for the past three semesters (Fall 2022, Spring 2023, Fall 2023).

Campaigning

• Candidates can share their candidacy and qualifications verbally and in writing (e.g., social media).
• Disparaging statements about other candidates are prohibited.

Distribution of Paraphernalia

• Candidates cannot purchase, create, or distribute campaign materials (business cards, brochures, stickers, etc.).
• Trading state pins is prohibited until after the election.

Use of Electronic Devices

• Candidates and Voting Delegates cannot use electronic devices during election sessions and the Business Session.
• This prevents communication or sharing resources that could give an unfair advantage.

Campaign Violations

• Violations must be reported in writing via email to leadership@fcclainc.org before the close of voting.
• A panel of five (Officers of the Board of Directors, immediate past president, and immediate past Vice President of Finance) will investigate allegations.
• The candidate, Nominating Committee member, or Voting Delegate will have a hearing.
• The review panel can remove individuals or disqualify candidates from election; the decision is final.

Election Process

• Each state may run two national officer candidates annually.
• NOC Test
  • All candidates take a 50-question multiple-choice test.
    • If there are more than 65 candidates, the test will cut the number to 65 based on the highest test scores of all candidates..
• Phase 1: Nominating Committee
  • Composed of three representatives from each region, selected on a rotating basis.
  • Chaired by the immediate past National Executive Council President.
  • Evaluates up to 65 candidates and selects 20 based on rubric scores, applications, test scores, interviews, and the NOC Fishbowl.
  • Each candidate delivers a three-minute speech and answers three questions (two situation questions and one FCCLA fact question).
  • Candidates participate in the NOC Fishbowl, a team activity in groups of approximately 10.
    • The final 20 candidates will include at least one candidate from each region, unless precluded by lack of candidates from a region.
• Phase 2: Voting Delegates
  • Evaluate 20 candidates by reviewing resumes/essays and observing networking and speech presentation.
  • Each candidate gives a speech and answers one situation question.
  • Each Voting Delegate votes for 10 candidates of their choice.
  • The four candidates with the most votes from each region will be elected with the remaining positions being filled with the candidates who get the highest number of votes regardless of region.

Go!

• Activities after election at the National Leadership Conference:
  • Meeting incoming and outgoing officers.
  • Understanding the role as a National Executive Council member.
  • Voting for designated office positions.
  • Meeting with National Staff.
  • Participating in photography sessions.
  • Rehearsing for installation.
  • Preliminary planning for the August National Executive Council meeting.
  • Attending the FCCLA After Party.
• Share accomplishments with family, friends, media, school, and community.
• A press release template will be available on the FCCLA website.

What’s Next for National Officer Candidates?

• All candidates and advisers may be asked to complete a survey.
• Non-elected candidates may be invited to a special session with the Executive Director.

A Final Note

• Discuss potential outcomes (elected or not) with your adviser.
• Being elected isn't everything; you can still play a big role.
• Appreciate the accomplishment of becoming a national officer candidate.

Reminders

• Complete the Intent to Run Form and submit by April 15 with a headshot in official FCCLA dress against a plain background.
• Save a copy of the application.
• If a candidate cannot travel alone due to school regulation, a letter stating the school/state will cover the adviser's expenses must be attached. FCCLA does not guarantee hotel availability for chaperones and candidates who are unable to acquire permission to travel alone are strongly discouraged from running for office.
• A candidate cannot participate as a conference presenter or in competitive events.

Chapter 2 – If Elected to the National Executive Council

• NEC members are elected by peers to serve in FCCLA's highest youth leadership position.
• It is a year of new experiences and responsibilities.
• The NEC serves in planning, program development, and public relations.
• NEC members plan and implement participation in the National Leadership Conference and the Fall Leadership Institute.
• They set up visits with legislators and correspond with state officers through National Network Teams.
• They prepare content for the State Officer Update and other messaging.
• NEC members participate in meetings of the National Board of Directors committees and serve on special committees.
• NEC members represent FCCLA at state meetings, meet legislators, make resource development visits to partners, and attend meetings of other organizations.
• A comprehensive understanding of Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Education, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and FCCLA is imperative.
• Each officer role offers unique opportunities and responsibilities.

Composition

• The National Executive Council is composed of 10 elected officers (President, First Vice President, Vice President of Community Service, Vice President of Competitive Events, Vice President of Development, Vice President of Finance, Vice President of Membership, Vice President of Parliamentary Law, Vice President of Programs, and Vice President of Public Relations).
• The designation of each member’s office is determined by the incoming council.

General Responsibilities and Conduct

• Responsibilities take priority over other school and community activities.
• National officers are highly visible role models; behavior should be exemplary.
• Dress and act appropriately; the official uniform makes a strong statement.
• Communication is crucial; keep chapter and state advisers informed.
• National Staff and the NEC do not answer questions concerning STAR Events; direct them to the state adviser.
  • All questions to National FCCLA regarding STAR Events must be emailed from the state adviser to the Competitive Events Manager on National Staff.
    • As a member of the National Executive Council, you should NOT answer questions regarding STAR Events (even regarding your state’s policy) or serve as a STAR Events evaluator or room consultant on any level.
• Establish a schedule and practice good time management.
• Meet with the chapter adviser weekly and keep the state adviser informed.
• Meet with school administrators monthly to inform them of activities and represent FCCLA positively.
• Student conduct should make a positive contribution.
• The National President and Vice President of Finance act as liaisons to the National Board of Directors.
• NEC members should become familiar with the responsibilities of all council members.
• NEC members are responsible for raising a minimum of $1,000 for the national organization.

National Executive Council Meetings

• Meet weekly via Zoom and in person, up to four or five times during the year, depending on the conference schedule and organizational needs.
• Meetings include National Executive Council planning meetings, Capitol Leadership (when applicable), Fall Leadership Institute, and National Leadership Conference.
• Council members also meet with other National Staff members, Board of Director members, partners, and stakeholders.
• At meetings, NEC members should be on time, prepared, share ideas, report results of Board of Directors committee meetings, and be oriented on the organization.
• They should develop communication techniques, work with staff to develop planning activities, set up public relations and legislative visits, and be involved in meeting planning activities.
• They should also be involved in activities to generate ideas for National FCCLA and in teamwork, leadership skill-building, and development activities.

At National Board of Directors Meetings NEC Members Shall

• be appointed to one of the standing committees. The President and Vice President of Finance serve as voting members on the Board of Directors.
• prepare for concerns to be addressed by becoming informed and reading board committee materials prior to the meetings.

Election of Designated Offices

• Following election of the officers, the new National Executive Council will meet to elect members for their designated offices.
• Candidates for designated offices will participate in hands-on skill practices facilitated by consultant(s).

Designated Officer Positions

• Roles and responsibilities explained, but note that during the year some responsibilities may change or not be applicable.
• President shall:
  • preside over all business meetings of the organization and of the National Executive Council; be a member of the National Board of Directors; appoint, after consultation with the chair of the National Board of Directors and Executive Director, the chairperson and members of all executive council committees; and be a member ex officio of all National Executive Council committees;
  • serve as a member of the National Board of Directors for a two-year term, the Executive Committee, and other board committees by appointment. In addition to the full Board of Directors meetings, the President will participate in Executive Committee meetings bi-monthly as needed;
  • work with the First Vice President to provide reports on work of the council to the Executive Committee, as requested;
  • report results of Board of Directors meetings to National Executive Council members as allowable;
  • meet with Executive Director in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • preside at all general sessions during the National Leadership Conference and the Fall Leadership Institute;
  • preside at the installation at the National Leadership Conference;
  • deliver address at installation at the National Leadership Conference;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • manage the Nominating Committee activities at NLC following their term;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• First Vice President shall:
  • assume responsibility in the absence of the President and keep the minutes of all national meetings and meetings of the National Executive Council;
  • meet with the Leadership and Programs Department in the late- summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • call the meeting to order in the absence of the President and serve as the temporary chair;
  • review minutes of the previous meeting and call President’s attention to any unfinished business;
  • read correspondence directed to the council;
  • submit minutes to National Staff within 2 days of the meeting;
  • track NEC Program of Work progress and provide reports monthly and as requested;
  • prepare reports of the National Executive Council activities for board meetings;
  • have the following items on hand for business meetings: (1) minutes of previous meeting, (2) list of committees previously appointed, (3) National Executive Council/Adviser Handbook;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Community Service shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing the organization's community service programs;
  • meet with the Leadership and Programs Department in the late- summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • provide input in the current National Outreach Project;
  • research and promote the National Outreach Project as decided by the National Executive Council;
  • report on the National Executive Council members’ service hours;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Competitive Events shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing the organization's competitive events; meet with the Adviser and Competitive Events Manager in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available; read and understand the 2024-2025 Competitive Events Guide;
  • serve a two-year term on the national Competitive Events Advisory Team;
  • actively participate in Competitive Events Advisory Team (CEAT) meetings and conference calls;
  • preside at the 2024 STAR Events Recognition Sessions, as available;
  • preside at the 2024 STAR Events Scholarship Reception if one is being hosted;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Development shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing the organization's fundraising and financial development;
  • meet with the Senior Partnership Manager in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • seek potential leads for corporate sponsorships and partnership;
  • work with National Executive Council members to include partnerships in their communications;
  • write thank you notes to FCCLA partners on behalf of the National Executive Council;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Finance shall:
  • provide leadership by serving as a two-year member of the National Board of Directors and the Finance Committee;
  • attend National Board of Directors committee meetings;
  • be knowledgeable about the finances of the national organization, including how dues are spent and why;
  • become acquainted with the national organization's budget for the current year; meet with the Senior Director overseeing the organizations finances in the late- summer/early fall for an explanation of the budget; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • review financial records as presented to the Finance Committee;
  • make a financial report to the delegates assembled at the National Leadership Conference business session;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • participate as the lead for the Ultimate Leadership Fund – Chapter and Individual Grant applications;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Membership shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing programs for membership promotion and development;
  • provide input on FCCLA Alumni & Associates;
  • provide input in updating and modifying the organization’s membership campaign;
  • meet with membership staff in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available; participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Parliamentary Law shall:
  • provide leadership in assuring that the business sessions for the national organization and meetings of the National Executive Council are conducted in accordance with acceptable parliamentary law;
  • have the following items on hand for business meetings: (1) current Bylaws, (2) Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, and (3) motion cards;
  • meet with assigned staff in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • attend National Association of Parliamentarians meeting upon request;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Programs shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing programs for the organization's members;
  • provide input in updating and modifying the national programs when necessary;
  • meet with Leadership and Programs Department staff in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available; review program award and scholarship applications;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.
• Vice President of Public Relations shall:
  • provide leadership in planning and implementing the organizations and National Executive Councils public relations efforts;
  • prepare a schedule for the NEC social media Instagram account;
  • provide input in the organization’s publicity efforts;
  • provide input in updating and modifying The FCCLA Branding Guide as requested;
  • provide input in the organization’s social media efforts;
  • oversee the National Executive Council’s Instagram account
  • review social media accounts of the National Executive Council to ensure accounts are clean and responsibilities are met;
  • meet with Communications Department staff in the late-summer/early fall to discuss plans for the year; participate virtually in department meetings throughout the year as available;
  • participate in national advocacy efforts throughout the year;
  • attend meetings with partners upon request;
  • prepare content for social media and other correspondence upon request;
  • raise a minimum of $1,000 financial support for the national organization.

Term of Office

• Officers serve for one year on the National Executive Council or until their successors are elected.
• The President and Vice President of Finance serve a two-year term on the Board of Directors.
• The Vice President of Competitive Events serves a two-year term on the Competitive Events Advisory Team.

Vacancies

• If the office of President becomes vacant, the First Vice President assumes the office.
• For other vacancies occurring before half the term is completed, the President consults with the Executive Director for appointments.
• If a vacancy occurs after half the term is completed (except for President), the other council members assume responsibilities, and the President consults with the Executive Director for assignments.

Code of Conduct/National Officer Agreement

• All national officers sign and abide by the FCCLA Code of Conduct/National Officer Agreement.
• General Guidelines:
  1. Reflect credit to you, your family, your school, your state, and the national organization.
  2. Exhibit trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.
  3. Local chapter adviser is responsible for officers' conduct; officers keep their adviser informed.
  4. Smoking or use of any form of tobacco, including vaping, is not allowed.
  5. Responsible for stealing or vandalism, will be expected to pay all damages.
  6. Report any accidents, injuries, or illnesses immediately.
  7. Submit a release of liability form prior to FCCLA booking travel arrangements for trips that include both personal and official business.
  8. Inappropriate physical contact is not acceptable.
  9. National Executive Council members must have their dues paid to National Headquarters by November 1.
  10. Officers will sign a Social Media Contract guiding their online presence and adhere to its specifications while in office.
      • Any violation of Rules 1 through 10 will subject an officer to probation or letter of reprimand. The disciplinary process will be followed.
  11. If a National Executive Council member chooses to not communicate or abstains from the betterment of the team for an extended period of time, discipline including, but not limited to: revoking attendance to meetings, not publishing articles, taking away assigned responsibilities, etc., will be established as determined by the FCCLA Leadership and Programs Manager.
  12. All National Executive Council members will observe the conference curfew. Staff may set an earlier curfew as needed.
  13. Officers are not allowed in hotel sleeping rooms with other members, officers, or visitors unless they are a designated roommate.
  14. National Executive Council members may not purchase, possess, consume, or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs at any time. Drinking mock cocktails is prohibited.
      • A violation of Rules 11 through 14 may subject an officer to immediate suspension*; therefore, the officer may be sent home from the event. Transportation home will be arranged at the officer’s expense. The disciplinary process will be followed at a later time.
  15. National Executive Council members are required to attend the entirety of all assigned meetings, including, but not limited to, the August and February National Executive Council Meetings, Fall Leadership Institute, and the National Leadership Conference.
• Removal: The FCCLA Executive Director, in consultation with the National President, reserves the right to relieve a national officer of responsibilities or dismiss him/her from office at the executive director’s discretion.
• Disciplinary Process Defined:
  1. The officer who has committed the offense will be notified immediately and then in written form via email within 10 working days following the verbal notification. This information also will be sent to the officer’s parent/guardian, local adviser, state adviser, and local principal.
  2. National headquarters may then
     • send a letter of reprimand to the officer and place the letter into the officer’s file
     • suspend the officer
     • remove the officer from office
  3. The national officer, local adviser, state adviser, principal, and parent/guardian shall be notified via email within 10 working days of the decision.

Relationships

• NEC Members: Support each other, respect opinions, and be team members. Effective teamwork requires constant effort and flexibility. Officers will review and sign a Code of Professionalism agreement which outlines communication expectations and timeliness during the August Planning Meeting.
• National Executive Council Adviser: Maintain regular communication, and keep your advisor informed of your schedule.
• The NECA will:
  • receive a 2024-2025 National Executive Council/Adviser Handbook containing specific adviser responsibilities;
  • be certified in Family and Consumer Sciences education and/or related occupations as determined by the state Department of Education;
  • serve as a mentor and help you fulfill your responsibilities as a national officer;
  • provide support at the National Leadership Conference;
  • support you in all of your assignments and activities and help keep communication lines open within your state;
  • keep school administrators and teachers informed about your key activities and provide guidance if questions or issues arise;
  • monitor National Executive Council member’s academic progress;
  • monitor National Executive Council member’s behavior.
• The national Bylaws (revised 2020) state that teachers certified in Family and Consumer Sciences education, as determined by the state department of education, shall serve as chapter advisers.
• State Executive Council and State Adviser: Act as a liaison, report national participation, support state officers, and keep advisers informed. National Executive Council members should not be asked to or expected to take on the same responsibilities and workload as State Officers and may not be available for state meetings or state activities during nationally sponsored events, such as the National Executive Council August and Winter Planning Meetings, the Fall Leadership Institute, and the National Leadership Conference. National Executive Council responsibilities will take priority at these events.
• School Administrators: Inform them of your accomplishment and explain the educational benefits. Discuss the possibility of earning school credit. Keep administrators informed throughout the year. Share meeting timelines and present an invitation to school administrators prior to meetings you will be attending when appropriate.
• Teachers: Discuss the possibility of receiving class credit for your experience. Keep teachers informed about travel plans far enough in advance to make up work. Investigate the possibility of dovetailing schoolwork with national officer experiences.
• National Staff: The Executive Director serves as the official adviser to the National Executive Council. The Leadership and Programs Manager is a member of the staff who works directly with the national officers and assists them in coordinating national officer responsibilities. This person will serve as primary point of contact for National Staff.
• Family: Keep them informed of activities and responsibilities. Officers may receive complimentary general session passes for immediate family members and grandparents who are not participating in the event otherwise.
• Friends: Let them know what you are doing and try to include them when you can, but be careful not to focus on your activities only.

Chapter 3 – National Executive Council Meetings

• August Planning Meeting: August 2024, Herndon, VA; Required attendance for NEC members and advisers, with expenses provided. Officers receive an overview of roles, training, updates, participate in team building, establish goals, provide input on Fall Leadership Institute, conduct initial planning for the National Leadership Conference, and other items as needed.
• Board of Directors Orientation and Meetings: Late July 2024 VIRTUAL Meeting. NEC Members will attend a counsel review meeting and participate in Board Committee Meetings virtually, with the exception of the President and VP of Finance who will participate in the full Board Meeting in person.
• Fall Leadership Institute: October 2024, Location: Anaheim, CA or Orlando, FL; Invaluable Leadership and Teamwork training led by Disney leaders.
• Winter Planning Meeting: February 2025, Location: Herndon, VA; Officers will meet with business partners and discuss responsibilities, identify challenges, obtain input, receive NLC orientation, plan the NLC, share workshop plans, review and evaluate the Program of Work, and plan the NLC general sessions.
• National Leadership Conference: July 5-9, 2025 Orlando, FL Tentatively arrive on July 1, 2025. Officers responsible for planning and carrying out the focus and content of the Conference. Arrive early to prepare and rehearse, participate in general sessions and meetings, get acquainted with candidates, support programs, and serve as role models.

National Leadership Conference Tips

• Keep an up-to-date list of all your responsibilities.
• Arrive at the National Leadership Conference with all responsibilities completed.
• Memorize scripts for general sessions and any other activities in which you have a part prior to arrival at NLC.
• Work closely with other council members to divide responsibilities.
• Before the meeting, inform your adviser of your responsibilities, activities, and schedule.
• Bring several white shirts and other necessary uniform needs, being sure your uniforms fit appropriately, are pressed and cleaned, and shoes are in excellent condition.
• Do your best and enjoy the experience.
• National Staff Responsibilities
  • Members of the National Staff are employed to manage the meeting and help you carry out your plans. The staff handles actual management of the meeting including:
    • pulling together general session plans and helping produce scripts
    • contacting speakers, workshop leaders, and program participants
    • arranging for the production of audio-visual materials
    • developing promotional materials to send to state associations and chapters
    • processing registration
    • working with the hotel and convention center on room assignments and equipment needs
    • contacting national and local media for press coverage

Chapter 4 – Travel and Expenses

• Organization and planning are key to balancing a busy year as a national officer.
• Calendar Year - Overview
  • Anticipate travel to National Executive Council meetings (August and February), National Board of Directors meetings (President and Vice President of Finance), Board Committee meetings, Fall Leadership Institute, and National Leadership Conference.
  • Council members may be asked to represent the organization at other meetings.
  • Participation depends on time limitations; expenses are usually reimbursable for nationally sponsored activities.
  • Covered by FCCLA insurance policy while traveling on nationally sponsored official business.
  • If participating in a meeting at the request of anyone other than national headquarters, expenses are the responsibility of that group. Inquire beforehand. Consider the expense before making your final decision. Never abuse the privilege of being a national officer.
  • National Officers must keep their school administration informed of all travel once elected to office.
• Travel: The Leadership and Programs Manager will communicate travel needs. The officer researches flight options and books travel through Concur website based on schedule and travel costs. Obtain approval from the Leadership and Programs Manager.
• Traveling Alone: Tips for traveling alone
  • Relax and ask questions. Airport personnel are helpful.
  • If you have a flight cancelled or you become aware that you will miss a connection, go directly to the gate agent or airline customer service desk and ask to be put on the next available flight and contact the Leadership and Programs Manager and/or your staff contact for that particular trip.
  • Carry a credit card or enough additional money to pay for a room in case a flight cancellation or delay causes you to spend the night in a hotel. Keep all receipts for purchases so you may be reimbursed.
  • When changing planes in an airport, check monitors or other posted flight schedules for gate and flight information.
  • Remember, most airlines prefer checking in online within 24 hours before your scheduled flight.
  • Upon arrival at your destination, proceed to the baggage claim area in the airport. Once you have your bags, you'll find ground transportation located nearby or call an Uber or Lyft. Ask skycaps for information if you need it, especially at larger airports where Uber and Lyft pickup locations may be designated in separate areas.
  • If instructed to use a taxi service for ground transportation, look for cars with clearly marked company information on the outside and make note of the cab number and/or driver’s name in case any problems occur or you accidentally leave something behind. Download the Uber or Lyft app and update your information prior to traveling so it is set up and ready to go.
  • Additional Tips for National Officer Travel:
    • Inform school administrators, teachers, and family of plans. Give them flight numbers and times, your schedule and emergency contact information.
    • Always carry your identification, National Staff and headquarters phone numbers, and one copy of the notarized parental consent form and medical card or information in case of an emergency.
    • Anticipate your financial needs and plan accordingly. It always is better to have too much money than not enough. Make sure you have a credit card, debit card, and/or enough additional cash in case of an emergency.
    • Pack wisely. When able, pack in carry-on luggage to help keep the organization’s travel costs as low as possible. Officers will be given information about what clothing and materials are needed and rarely will have time or the opportunity to need more than what is listed.
    • When traveling on national organization business, the national organization assumes responsibility for your travel arrangements.
    • When traveling on national organization business, you will have an adult contact. When you arrive at the hotel, contact the adult to announce your arrival. Do not leave the hotel without an adult.
    • When another group or state association has requested your participation, the group extending the invitation is responsible for your travel arrangement.
• Hotel Safety:
  • Officer name tags should be worn when attending meetings. Remove name tags when outside the hotel unless you are participating in a meeting activity.
  • Never travel outside the hotel alone. An adult should accompany you. Use good judgment when talking to people not connected with FCCLA.
  • Never give your room number to anyone you don't know and do not discuss your lodging details in public spaces.
  • Lock and bolt your hotel room doors. Open only when you know who is on the other side. All hotel personnel will be in uniform and have an identification badge. If in doubt, call the hotel operator and ask that security come and verify the employee's identity.
  • Don't leave valuables or money unlocked in hotel rooms. Keep them in the room safe or a hotel safety deposit box. Such boxes are generally available at the hotel registration desk and/or in your room at no charge.
  • Note the fire escape exits on your floor. As an added precaution, count the number of doors from your room to the nearest exit in case smoke-filled hallways block your vision.
  • Be considerate of all hotel guests when using the elevators.
  • Do not use room service laundry services, pay-per-view, high-speed Internet, etc.
  • Be considerate of sleeping hours and the privacy of other hotel guests and FCCLA members. Talk in hushed tones in the hallway and do not let your door slam when entering or exiting your room.
  • Double-check your room prior to departure to make sure all personal items have been removed, otherwise you assume responsibility for costs of shipping items to you.
  • Males and females cannot be in the same hotel room together at any time for any reason. No other person should be in your room at any time except for your designated roommate.
  • Keep your room organized and clean.

Travel Reimbursement

• As an NEC member, expenses are covered for National Executive Council meetings, Fall Leadership Institute, National Leadership Conference, and other meetings when representing the national organization.
• Notify National Staff of meetings in advance.
• You will be reimbursed for:
  • Transportation: By train (first-class round-trip with upper berth for night travel or economy for day travel), plane (economy-class round-trip), bus (round-trip ticket), or car (mileage).
    • Mileage: (The total allowance authorized, including cost of meals and housing, will be limited to the cost of economy-class airfare [baggage fees will not be included to the airfare cost] unless travel by private automobile is determined to be advantageous to the organization and is authorized in advance by national staff. Only one person per car can claim mileage reimbursement. Check with national staff for the current rate per mile allowed. The rate allowable for mileage also applies to car mileage from your home to point of departure and return home if the distance is fifty (50) miles or greater, amounting to one round trip). Generally, mileage reimbursement shall be capped at a maximum of $250 per trip or event subject to approval by National FCCLA.
  • Taxi, Uber/Lyft, or shuttle service: from point of arrival to meeting location. Airport or hotel shuttles/limo service should be used if more economical than taxi services.
  • Meals: A maximum allowance per day will be granted for meals while attending the meeting and traveling to and from the meeting based on the U.S. General Services Administration’s current CONUS rates. Itemized receipts must be attached to the expense reimbursement form. This amount includes tips. When some meals are provided, the full daily allowance does not apply. A breakdown of allowances for specific meals that correlates to the destination’s CONUS rate will be provided to help guide officers’ meal decisions