Many teenagers have complained that there aren’t any classes that teach the basics of living on their own. This year Linganore is offering Independent Living, a new class that will provide students with the basic skills they will need when living on their own in the future.

Furthermore, this class offers a “Hands-on experience to guide students through the decisions that will have an impact upon their future” as it stated in the FCPS course summary. It is available for all students and meets the Personal Financial Literacy requirement students need in order to graduate.

“This class teaches basic cooking, balancing a checkbook, buying a car, etc. It prepares students for the world outside of high school and the obstacles they may face,” said Sophomore Lauren Hall, Independent Living student.

The Career and Technology Education Coordinator, Eric Haines, said, “It is a great class for all students to have.”

Haines believes students should sign up for this course, both to get the financial credit and because it discusses issues they will face later in life. He thinks this class will additionally allow students to make better choices in the future and right now.

“It is not your normal taking notes, reading book type of class. In independent living you are required to get up out of your seat and complete tasks.There are many financial literacy, resume, interviewing for jobs and college prep information to learn so you are more familiar with some of these needs after graduation,” said Kate Lane, Independent Living teacher.

This class clearly demonstrates the most important aspects for living independently but will also educate students on simple tasks.

“So far I’d say the most important thing I’ve learned is what not to put down the garbage disposal, such as potato skins or grease,” said Hall.