Lakeside Jr/Sr High School’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter is making strides both in fundraising and competition as they prepare for upcoming state and national events.
The chapter recently concluded its “Soles for Souls” shoe drive, collecting 814 pairs of gently worn, used, and new shoes. The footwear will be processed through the Funds2Orgs network, which partners with micro-entrepreneurs in developing countries to help establish and sustain small businesses. Proceeds from the effort will support Lakeside FBLA members as they advance through various levels of competition.
“We really appreciate the community helping us out,” said Lesa Ward, FBLA sponsor at Lakeside. “We raise money for our students to attend various competitions throughout the year.”
That support is already proving beneficial, as Lakeside FBLA members recently delivered strong performances at the Northeast Regional Conference, with several students earning top rankings. Superior ratings (top 10) qualify for the state conference, while excellent rankings (11–20) reflect commendable performances.
Lakeside competitors who secured Superior rankings and will advance to the state conference include:
- Accounting I: Elizabeth
- Agribusiness: Olivia
- Business Law: Cameron
- Health Care Administration: Josh A.
- Help Desk: Alyssa
- Hospitality & Event Management: Kynsey
- Current Events: Kynsey, Amanda, Jaelyn (1st place)
- Job Interview: Abby
- Public Policy: Cameron
- Public Speaking: Jaelyn
- Spreadsheets: Josh A.
- Supply Chain Management: Isiah
- Word Processing: Landon, Evan
Meanwhile, several students earned Excellent rankings, placing in the top 20 of their categories:
- Cyber Security: Josh H.
- Help Desk: Olivia
- Intro to FBLA: Owen
- Journalism: Landon, Kyndall
- Organizational Leadership: Hayden, Faith
- Personal Finance: Ethan P., Abby
- Public Speaking: Ethan G.
- Spreadsheets: Josh H.
- Supply Chain Management: Hayden
With the state conference set for late March, these students will have the opportunity to qualify for the FBLA National Leadership Conference, scheduled for June 29–July 2 in Anaheim, California.
Lakeside is the only public school in Webster Parish that regularly participates in FBLA competitions. Given that last year’s national conference in Orlando cost approximately $2,500 per student, the chapter continues fundraising efforts to help cover travel expenses. Those interested in contributing can contact Ward at the school.