Multiplying over 10 times in size in just a year, FBLA is on the rise here at George Rogers Clark.
Elizabeth Scioneaux, business teacher and now club sponsor, is helping to prepare our students for a better future.
FBLA stands for Future Business Leaders of America, a national organization that allows each school to have its chapter and leaders.
“This club is a great way to grow in your leadership skills and it helps students step out of their comfort zone to grow as individuals,” Ms. Scioneaux says.
She said the club emphasizes entrepreneurship skills and decision-making as business leaders and offers a variety of ways to network with people all over Kentucky and te nation.
“Even if you are not sure business is the way you want to go, it is a great way to grow as an effective leader,” she says.
No matter what you think the future holds for you, FBLA allows you to reach your full potential, wherever life takes you next.
“I have students who are going straight to college, into apprenticeships and the workforce, and even some that are taking a year off,” says Ms. Scioneaux. “No matter what they are doing, this club is sure to give them the tools that they need to be successful in life.”
The club gives students opportunities to travel in and outside of Winchester, along with introducing them to professional dress and attitude.
While core classes at school give you a strong educational foundation, there are some things that these classes just can’t teach you. That is where programs like FBLA come into play.
“Students learn how to interact at a level that sets them apart from the crowd,” Ms. Scioneaux says. “I love watching students’ faces when we go to regional conferences and competitions. They are always amazed that other students are dressed up so nicely and very competitive.”
An essential part of FBLA is the connections that members form at meetings and competitions. Students have the opportunity to compete in several competitive events. Sales Presentation, Word Processing, Parliamentary Procedure, and Cyber Security are just a few of the options.
Being surrounded by like-minded individuals and having the opportunity to meet and connect with other driven students is a critical part of FBLA.
“I have met amazing FBLA advisors all over the state of Kentucky and have formed friendships with people I would never have met if it weren’t for FBLA,” says Ms. Scioneaux. “One of my students told me this year that’s how I should sell it next year – that there are literally hundreds of other students in this club, dressed to impress and ready to engage.”
Even though Ms. Scioneaux has only been the business teacher here for two years, she has already made great strides in growing the program.
“I love my Old Kentucky Home and I have enjoyed being at GRC and building new friendships,” she says. “From the day I was interviewed at GRC, I have been welcomed into the Cardinal family.”
GRC is fortunate to have a teacher such as Ms. Scioneaux who takes initiative and allows our students to have opportunities to better themselves and their future.
Her impact does not go unnoticed. It is apparent that Ms. Scioneaux’s eagerness to help students is appreciated. The club has grown exponentially just since last year, largely due to her efforts.
“This year we had a full officer team and I loved watching them lead and hear about what more they want to do,” she says. “All of our members bring so much to the table and they all get excited about what we are doing as an organization. I love getting to know each member and learning what their gifts are and then figuring out where they can serve and lead.”
Ms. Scioneaux is hoping to grow the program even more and expand the reach and impact of FBLA beyond what it already has.
“In 2022, I had no idea what I was doing,” she says. “This year, we went from three members to 38 members and next year I’m certain there will be even more. It is an exciting time for GRC FBLA to make their mark and keep growing. I’m extremely proud of our students this year because they’ve participated more, planned more, and have stepped out of their comfort zone in numerous ways. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Whether you have an immediate plan for after graduation or you are still unsure, FBLA is an amazing stepping stone.
Gain priceless skills and connections that will last a lifetime; all it takes is your initiative to join FBLA next school year.
