Kaitlyn Kirksey: Finding Her Dream Job as an FCS Teacher
For Kaitlyn Kirksey, teaching family and consumer sciences is more than just a job; it’s a lifelong passion. The Edmond Public Schools teacher is driven by a commitment to empower her students and prepare them for successful futures.
“Teaching FCS is my dream job,” Kirksey said. “I’m grateful to play even a small part in my students’ lives, and I can’t wait to see what they’ll achieve in the future.”
Kirksey’s dedication to FCS education began with her own journey as a student. Growing up in Stillwater, she took her first FCS class in middle school. It was there that a teacher recognized her leadership potential and encouraged her to run for office in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America chapter. Kirksey’s election as chapter president was just the start of a path that would help define her career.
“I had taken an FCS class in the eighth grade, and my teacher saw leadership potential in me that I didn’t even know I had,” Kirksey said. “She encouraged me to run for office, and I ended up serving as chapter president that year.”
Throughout high school, Kirksey held various leadership roles, culminating in her position as Oklahoma FCCLA’s state vice president of public relations during her junior year. One of her most influential experiences was advocating for FCCLA and FCS education at the state Capitol, a moment that gave her the confidence to speak out for the causes she believed in.
“FCCLA taught me the value of teamwork, problem-solving and the importance of diverse perspectives,” she said. “It also gave me the courage to speak up for myself and for the things that matter to me and those around me.”
The leadership skills Kirksey developed during her time in FCCLA laid the foundation for her future pursuits. After graduating from Stillwater High School in 2016, she attended Oklahoma State University, earning a degree in human development and family sciences with an emphasis on FCS education. Inspired by the teachers who saw her potential and guided her growth, Kirksey was motivated to become an educator herself.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am today if my FCS teachers hadn’t believed in me and provided opportunities for growth,” she said. “I wanted to do the same for my students, and I hope I have.”
Now an FCS teacher, Kirksey is passionate about dispelling common misconceptions about the field and highlighting its importance.
“FCS is more than just cooking and sewing,” she said. “We equip students with industry skills and competencies that prepare them for successful careers.”
Kirksey also advocates for the value of CareerTech in a world where college is becoming less accessible.
“I believe CareerTech offers students a wide range of pathways that don’t necessarily require a college degree but still set them up for long-term success,” she said. “For those who do pursue higher education, CareerTech experiences provide transferable skills that will only enhance their career prospects.”
As she looks forward, she hopes her students will draw strength from the lessons they learn in her classroom, just as she did years ago.
“My hope is that they’ll leave not only with knowledge but with the confidence to face any challenge,” she said. “If I can inspire even one student to believe in their own potential, then I know I’m doing what I was meant to do.”
