Pensacola High School students and their FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) adviser told the Escambia County School Board on Feb. that their chapter has expanded districtwide and is using competitions and community service to prepare students for college and careers. "My name is Jacob Hill and I'm the Chapter Advisor of FBLA," Hill said as he introduced student speakers.

Underclassman representative Melody Wynne said FBLA helps students develop leadership, public speaking and workplace skills that can translate to both college and immediate employment after graduation. "It is an honor to speak about future business leaders of America to you all today," she said.

Students reported district membership increases—PHS alone listed 149 active members and district rolls that include 344 high school students and 92 middle school students. The chapter took 110 members to state last year and increased that delegation to 116 this year; 32 students advanced to the National Leadership Conference in 2024, with one student, Kira Ross, placing seventh nationally.

The presentation highlighted community service projects and external partnerships: the chapter runs a formal‑attire wardrobe drive for underprivileged students, partners with March of Dimes and the Alzheimer's Association, supports Keep Pensacola Beautiful, and sends students to entrepreneurship and leadership conferences. Students said a $5,000 grant from Wells Fargo and a consortium of Florida foundations underwrites the chapter's American Enterprise outreach to middle schools and has helped the program reach economically disadvantaged students.

The board responded with praise and encouragement; Superintendent Leonard thanked the FBLA team for work that demonstrates district strengths across schools. The board chair invited the chapter to speak again at future meetings.

The board accepted the presentation and will see related recognitions and agenda items at the upcoming regular meeting.