Great Plains IDEA: Preparing FCS teachers through distance education

The family and consumer sciences (FCS) profession is undergoing a critical shortage of highly qualified teachers and is experiencing an urgent need for Extension educators. The Great Plains Interactive Distance Education Alliance (IDEA) Family & Consumer Sciences Education Master’s program is providing a viable option for expanding the number of qualified FCS teachers. The program capitalizes on the growing educational possibilities created through the spreading of distance education. This paper reports on this initiative, concluding that the program is beneficial for the FCS teaching profession, universities, and students, and it is crucial for the future of the profession.