Taylor Lauer, a senior at Hermann FCCLA High School, participated in the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Legislative Shadowing Project on Wednesday, April 22. Lana Koelling, local FCCLA chapter adviser, accompanied Lauer to the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City.

Sponsored by the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and the Missouri Educators of Family Consumer Sciences (MoEFCS), the program provides junior and senior high school students the opportunity to spend a day with a state representative, senator, or other public official. Participants observe hearings, committee meetings, and other legislative duties while gaining firsthand insight into the political process.

Now in its 25th year, the Legislative Shadowing Project began with an opening session and reception on Tuesday, April 21. During this session, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Chief of Governmental Affairs Perry Gorrell presented on the legislative process and Capitol etiquette, preparing students for their shadowing experience.

The program allows students to connect their interests in law, public service, civic engagement, and family and consumer sciences to real-world policymaking. FCCLA works to match students with legislators or officials from their home districts whenever possible. Prior to the experience, students research their assigned officials, current legislation, and committee responsibilities to better understand ongoing policy work.

During their shadowing experience, Lauer was paired with State Representative Jim Schulte. Lauer was introduced as a special guest during a House session and observed floor proceedings during a lively debate on current bills, including witnessing a point of order—an especially engaging moment for a student on the Hermann FFA Parliamentary Procedure team.

Following the session, Lauer spent time in Representative Schulte’s office discussing current issues and legislation, meeting with lobbyists and other legislators, and posing for a photo at the House podium. She also observed a Senate session focused on education budget discussions.

The day concluded at Carver Farm, where participants gathered to reflect on their experiences and share highlights of the day over refreshments.

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is a nonprofit Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) that integrates with Family and Consumer Sciences and Human Services education. Missouri FCCLA serves more than 9,930 members across over 330 local chapters, making it one of the largest state associations in the nation.

The Legislative Shadowing Project continues to offer students meaningful opportunities to deepen their understanding of government, civic responsibility, and the impact of policy decisions on families, communities, and the workforce.