Career and Technical Education student organizations, known as CTSOs, play a powerful role in helping students prepare for both college and future careers. These organizations connect classroom learning to real world experiences, giving students opportunities to practice leadership, teamwork, and problem solving beyond textbooks and tests. By participating in CTSOs, students gain confidence, build resumes, and discover career paths they may want to pursue after high school. At Southern Lee, CTSOs are an important part of the CTE experience and help students see how their skills can be used in meaningful ways.
One of the key benefits of CTSOs is how they prepare students for life after graduation. Through competitions, conferences, community service, and leadership roles, students learn how to communicate professionally, manage their time, and set goals. Many CTSOs also offer scholarships, certifications, and networking opportunities with colleges and industry professionals. These experiences help students stand out when applying to colleges, internships, and jobs, while also teaching responsibility and independence.
Each CTSO at Southern Lee focuses on a different career pathway and set of skills. FFA prepares students for careers in agriculture, agribusiness, and environmental science while emphasizing leadership and hands-on learning. FBLA focuses on business, finance, and entrepreneurship, helping students develop professional skills such as public speaking and financial literacy. FCCLA centers on family and consumer sciences, teaching skills related to nutrition, education, hospitality, and human services.
Other CTSOs provide preparation for highly specialized career fields. HOSA supports students interested in health science careers by offering medical-based competitions and leadership training. SkillsUSA focuses on skilled trades, technology, and industrial careers, allowing students to compete in hands-on technical events that mirror real job tasks. DECA prepares students for careers in marketing, management, finance, and hospitality through competitive events and business simulations. The National Technical Honor Society NTHS is for current CTSO members who meet GPA requirements.
Together, these CTSOs create opportunities for students to explore interests, develop career-ready skills, and build confidence in their abilities. While each organization has a unique focus, all CTSOs share the goal of preparing students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Southern Lee, participation in CTSOs helps students move from the classroom to the future with skills, experience, and direction.