Home Economics is a class many of us grew up taking. It’s where we learned about life and finances, how to cook and sew, and the basics of nutrition — like the food pyramid — so we could head into the world with healthier, more productive habits.
The class has evolved over the years, and so has its name. These invaluable life lessons are now taught under the banner of Family and Consumer Science (FACS).
But could the face of the course be changing as well?
In a field traditionally dominated by women, Moody County is in a unique position. Colman-Egan and Flandreau Public Schools are breaking gender norms in FACS education by having men teach the classes. Nationally, only 6.7% of Family and Consumer Science teachers are men, according to data from the research firm Zippia.
The disparity reflects a broader trend in education, where women hold about 76% of teaching positions in public schools, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
In Colman, Bodee Groos brings a unique perspective to a diverse curriculum that prepares 7th-12th grade students for real-world success. A 2018 graduate of Colman-Egan, Groos went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from South Dakota State University in 2022.
As he explored career options, Groos turned his focus to education.

“I found out that Colman-Egan was in need of a FACS teacher. I looked over the class schedule and noticed many of the courses were similar to what I learned in college,” Groos said.
“I spoke with the administration and found out that there’s a program in South Dakota for teachers like me to get a teaching degree through mentorship. I knew I’d have full support from my school and mentor, Lisa Paulson, and decided to accept the job.”
Flandreau students are learning from Jason Gerlach, who teaches a variety of life skills in a newly upgraded kitchen and classroom. The state-of-the-art facilities, Gerlach believes, will significantly impact students’ learning experiences.
“Our kitchen classroom hadn’t been updated since the building was constructed in 1968, or so I’m told,” Gerlach said.
“We prepare meals and learn techniques that translate into career skills. Students learn kitchen safety, teamwork, food safety rules and regulations, and what it takes to open, own, and operate a restaurant professionally.”
Gerlach brings a diverse background to the role. He began in Early Childhood Education, moved into administration, and later earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business. He then spent 13 years in Human Resources and Employee Training before returning to education.
“In my previous role, I was shocked at how many adults were unprepared for the interviewing process,” he said.
“I discovered I was happiest when teaching adults how to apply for jobs, interview, and prepare for their first day. I hope I’m helping students become more prepared for their employment experiences during and after high school. I also want them to leave my classroom knowing they’re capable of more than they realize, they’re intelligent, and they have something valuable to contribute.”
Groos emphasized that FACS courses fall under Career and Technical Education (CTE).
“Students may not realize it, but these classes are structured to set them up well in life,” he said. Beyond cooking, the courses cover a broad range of subjects, including Middle School Family and Consumer Science, Nutrition and Wellness, Culinary Arts, Entrepreneurship, Employability, Career Explorations, Prenatal to Three, and Preschool to School Age.
“I try to relate everything I teach back to health. These students don’t get many health classes, so I feel it’s my job to highlight its importance. They might not use everything they learn in high school, but they will always have to manage their health,” offered Groos.