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Student leaders tell Kansas State Board CTSOs build confidence, career skills
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Summary
Student officers from eight Career and Technical Student Organizations told the Kansas State Board of Education that CTSO participation fosters leadership, work readiness and civic engagement, with several students linking the experience to college and career plans.
Student leaders from eight career and technical student organizations told the Kansas State Board of Education on the second day of its January meeting that CTSO participation shifts students’ mindsets, builds professional skills and helps prepare them for college and careers.
Dali Sanchez, Kansas president of Business Professionals of America, said the organization changed her approach from waiting for instructions to asking ‘What needs to be done?’ and taught her critical thinking, communication and adaptability. “BPA has helped me transform,” she said.
Other student speakers gave concrete examples of CTSO impact. Sonica Gonicker, a junior and BPA vice president, said state officer duties refined her public‑speaking and collaboration skills. A DECA officer described analyzing case studies and presenting strategic improvements under pressure; an FFA officer cited supervised agricultural experiences that included raising piglets for a food bank and hands‑on animal science classes. Several students tied CTSO roles to future college choices and career paths.
The board praised the presentations and asked students to share brief, work‑related examples of how CTSO skills translate to daily responsibilities. Students described using public‑speaking skills in jobs, organizing school events and leading community projects.
Board members and KSDE staff framed the student remarks as an affirmation of Kansas’s CTE ecosystem. The presentations preceded other agenda items and were followed by the board’s Special Education Advisory Council breakfast and regular business items. The board encouraged continued district and community support for CTSOs and invited students to lunch and further discussion.
The board did not take formal action on CTSO items; the segment served as a series of student testimonials and an opportunity for members to hear youth perspectives ahead of policy discussions.
