1. How to Start a CTSO Career & Technical Student OrganizationBy
Kit Alvarez, CRYROP

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

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

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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