CTSOs are integral parts of a CTE program. The purpose of CTSOs is to enhance the opportunity for students to develop leadership and the necessary skills, abilities, and attitudes to succeed in the world of work. The California Department of Education recognizes the following six CTSOs:
Cal-HOSA: Future Health Professionals, an affiliate of HOSA: Future Health Professionals, is a student-led organization for middle school, high school, and postsecondary students, interested in careers in the health and mental health professions. California students from schools across the State are members of Cal-HOSA. Cal-HOSA also serves as a prevention and early intervention model for keeping students from dropping out, and early identification of health/behavioral health problems.
California DECA is a student organization whose program of leadership and personal development is designed specifically for students interested in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. DECA helps students develop skills and competence for marketing careers, to build self-esteem, experience leadership, and practice roles in the community.
As an integral part of an instructional program, the Future Business Leaders of America organization provides opportunities for secondary and middle level students in business education and business-related fields to develop career supportive competencies and to promote civic and personal responsibility.
California FFA, a student organization for agricultural education students in grades nine through twelve, is an integral part of agricultural education that focuses on developing leadership and interpersonal skills. Today, through their involvement in the FFA, thousands of young people are preparing for successful careers in agriculture and other related industries and contributing to their communities.
Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is the career technical student organization for students grade six through twelve who are currently enrolled in Family and Consumer Sciences Education courses related to the following industry sectors: Education, Child Development, and Family Services; Fashion and Interior Design; and Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation. As an intra-curricular part of the Family and Consumer Sciences Education instructional program, FCCLA activities provide members with the opportunity to apply skills in leadership, in the community, and in the workplace.
SkillsUSA is a national organization that creates a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure a skilled workforce for America. SkillsUSA provides an educational program that develops personal, workplace and technical skills that are grounded in academics, along with leadership and skill events and competitions that support career and technical education (CTE) in the classroom.
For questions regarding CTSOs, contact the California Department of Education Career and College Transition Division at (916) 445-2652.
