The Business Professionals of America (BPA) chapter at Maquoketa High School is gearing up for an exciting school year filled with leadership opportunities, career-building competitions, and community service projects. Led by Business Ed Teacher, Trisha Manthei, the club currently has 12 to 15 interested in participating in the Fall Leadership Conference.
"Going to the Fall Leadership Conference as a freshman inspired me to want to continue learning more about the club and the opportunities that it provides. My favorite memory would be qualifying for Nationals in Florida as a freshman and Nashville as a sophomore. These experiences taught me about the world outside of Maquoketa and the people that live there. I'm more confident in myself and my abilities to lead others as a result of BPA." ~Kenzi Wallroff
The Fall Leadership Conference is held in West Des Moines, taking place November 1st and 2nd. Attendees will take part in interactive leadership sessions designed to help them build professional skills and prepare for future career pathways.
These sessions will also serve as preparation for the BPA State Leadership Competition, scheduled for February 14th–16th. At State, members will demonstrate their knowledge in Workplace Skills Assessment Program (WSAP) events, which include presentations, accounting exams, entrepreneurship projects, and computer skills testing, just to name a few. Qualifying students will earn the chance to advance to the BPA National Leadership Conference, held in Colorado starting May 4th.
Giving Back to the Community
In addition to leadership and business competitions, Maquoketa’s BPA chapter is strongly focused on giving back through local service and fundraising projects:
Soup Supper (Dec. 15): BPA will partner with the HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) club to host a joint Soup Supper.
Miracle Minute Basketball Game: To support Special Olympics, BPA holds its annual Miracle Minute during a home basketball game. Last year, the effort successfully raised $500 for the cause.
Community Easter Egg Hunt (March 27): Looking ahead to the spring, the chapter will host an Easter Egg Hunt for local children and families. You can purchase a ticket to have the team come to your specified location and set up a visit from the Easter Bunny.
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With a busy calendar ahead, Maquoketa High School’s BPA members are ready to represent their school, build valuable business skills, and make a positive impact in the community! It’s not too late to join!
