Students showcase CTE pathways: SkillsUSA, HOSA and FFA highlight state and national success

Students from Hutchison and North Pole High School presented examples of career and technical education during the board meeting on Feb. 17.

Brennan Nicaterra, president of Hutchison SkillsUSA, described competitions that send students to state and national events and recounted winning first place in job interview and attending nationals in Atlanta. "I really just wanna stress how SkillsUSA can really help the students learn and grow as people in a leadership field," he said.

Heidi Beardsley, Hutchison HOSA adviser, and student competitors noted placings at state and international contests and described partnerships with local hospitals that provide clinical exposure and workshops. Senior Nevaeh Montgomery described placing second in the state for medical terminology and qualifying for the international competition.

North Pole FFA students described their greenhouse and hydroponics projects, an upcoming plant sale (scheduled for May 9), and expanding ag classes including a proposed marine science and veterinary science pathway. FFA students also noted increased statewide participation and national travel opportunities.

District administrators and board members cited these CTSO (career and technical student organization) programs as evidence of robust CTE offerings across the district; the superintendent earlier noted students earned over 495 industry certifications districtwide last year.

The presentations underscored industry connections, leadership development, and hands‑on opportunities that district officials say they hope to expand or share more broadly across schools.