How to Start a CTSO Career & Technical Student Organization By Kit Alvarez, CRYROP

CTSO Background Many CTSOs are in their 70th year They provide opportunities beyond the classroom and enhance curricula Each CTSO has its own requirements related to one or a sequence of courses Most are co-curricular, i.e. materials and resources enhance core curriculum Most have Web-based registration and information They utilize business & industry ties to stay current and relevant for student activities and advisors

CTSOs Recognized by US Department of Education DECA – Distributive Education Clubs of America FBLA – Future Business Leaders of America FFA – Future Farmers of America FHA – Future Homemakers of America HERO – Home Economics Related Occupations TSA – Technology Student Association HOSA – Health Occupations Students of America VICA – Vocational Industrial Clubs of America BPA – Business Professionals of America NYFEA – National Young Farmers Educational Association

Gain Administrative Approval Administrative support is crucial to success Obtain appointment with administrator to present proposal Written proposal includes: Supporting Literature Outline of purpose Philosophy and mission statement Benefits to students and school Relationship to curriculum Cites success chapters in other districts

Contact State CTSO Representative for Pathway Resources to locate representative Local chapter advisor in your area National Association Obtain handbook and official guidelines State/Nations constitutions Template for school site constitution Sample program activities & leadership materials Forms & supply catalogs Information on Activities, contests, & awards All materials available are relevant

Characteristics of a Successful Chapter Capable officers Challenging program Adequate financing Shared responsibilities Appropriated equipment and supplies Complete records Cooperative administration, faculty and student involvement

Generate Student Interest Motivate membership Facilitate a positive attitude Effective promotion Highlight opportunities Guest speakers from local chapters Engaging initial activities to involve students Opportunity for student interface Provide time for discussion, Q & A

Communicate with Parents Letters, fliers, handouts, brochures Parent night for discussion Invite parents to attend a meeting Generate visibility and community support Focus on benefits Occupational experience Class performance and conduct Citizenship and scholastic achievement Time management & personal development Employment opportunity & increased earnings

Conduct Meetings Reference State materials & guidelines Discuss leadership qualities Develop an agenda Purpose of Organization Relationship to growth of future members Organizational structure Duties and responsibilities Positions within organization Teach how to conduct a business meeting

Student Orientation Promote organization In classes Individual contacts Integrate CTSO activities into curriculum daily Demonstrate relevancy of activity to students Solicit student involvement

Develop Constitution & By-laws Reference handbook for State and National constitution & by-laws Constitution addresses long-range principles and fundamental laws By-laws address operational procedures and can be revised Establish sub-committee for development Obtain administrative approval

Develop Constitution & By-laws cont’ Local chapter issues Duties of officers Election procedures Meeting schedule Financing for chapter activities Member responsibilities Cross reference with School policy & Ed. Code State & national organizations

Affiliate with State & National Students should vote on & pass motion to affiliate with State & national organizations File application for chapter representative with appropriate State & National officers Obtain Certificate of Charter Participate in sponsored State and local area events Display charter is appropriate location

References and Examples VICA  Vocational Industrial Clubs of America DECA  Distributive Education Clubs of America HOSA  Health Occupations Students of America SkillsUSA FFA  Future Farmers of America FBLA  Future Business Leaders of America FCCLA  Family Community, and Career Leaders of America NVTHS  National Vo-Tech Honor Society