CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION - STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

CTSO Funding and Expenditures

Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are encouraged and expected in schools with CTE programs as part of a holistic approach to curriculum and leadership development for students. The State of Texas and the Texas Education Code also recognizes the value of career and technical student organizations by emphasizing the importance of “participation by students and teachers in activities of career and technical student organizations supported by the agency and the State Board of Education (Sec. 29.182).”  

Perkins V gives local CTE programs the ability to support CTSOs with CTE Funding, including student preparation for and participation in technical skills competitions aligned with CTE program standards and curricula.  While fiscal support for CTSOs that are duly established and chartered is allowable, not all activities can be supported solely with CTE funding.  As a reminder, funding the equipment and curricula needs for classrooms is the priority for CTE expenditures.  The supplement, not supplant provision applies to the Perkins V grant and CTE program expenditures.  To qualify for funding a CTSO must meet all the following criteria:

• Are considered an integral part of instruction in CTE and, as such, contribute to the attainment of specialized curriculum competencies within the recognized program areas of secondary CTE

• Are supervised by qualified and licensed CTE personnel

• Are affiliated with appropriate state and/or national organization structures

• Are organized and conducted in accordance with guidelines and policies of the Texas Education Agency (TEA CTSO Oversight Policy) as specified by Career and Technical Education - Student Organizations

• Serve as a teaching strategy that contributes significantly to the motivation and total development of students through activities that develop leadership abilities, citizenship skills, and social competencies leading to a wholesome attituded about living and working