BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

SAN DIEGO — A duo of Martin County High School students captured silver medals in the Family, Community and Career Leaders of America National Leadership Conference June 29-July 3 in San Diego.

Jayde Preece and Megan Mollett competed for the medals with their Focus on Children toothbrushing project.

“The trip to California for nationals was amazing,” Preece said. “I’m so glad I got the opportunity to do something like this. All the hard work paid off.”

As part of their project, Mollett and Preece presented to Martin County Elementary students about the research they conducted for their project.

“We went to the elementary schools and taught K-2 students proper teeth hygiene,” said Preece.

The students then prepared the presentation and speech that won first place at the regional level and second place at the state level.

In addition to competing, the students, their adviser Connie Harless and others visited San Diego Zoo, Belmont Park, Disneyland, Seaport Village and other attractions. They also got to meet FCCLA members nationwide.

“The experience had to be one of the best things I have ever got to do,” said Preece.

The students left San Diego late Monday night, heading for home.