Washington Community Schools

21 Qualify for Nationals in Orlando: 6 Earn Honorable Mention

Des Moines, IA – Washington High School’s Business Professionals of America (BPA) members showcased their talents at the Spring Leadership Conference, held February 16-18 in Des Moines. Forty Washington BPA members competed against students from across the state. Participants tested their skills in business, finance, technology, and leadership events, aiming to qualify for the prestigious BPA National Leadership Conference.

After days of competition and outstanding performances, several Washington High School students secured top placements, earning their spots at nationals. The BPA National Leadership Conference will take place in Orlando, Florida, from May 7-11 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center. The event will bring together thousands of high school and college students from across the country to compete at the highest level, attend leadership workshops, and gain valuable networking opportunities.

Washington High School’s BPA chapter, led by business teacher and advisor Shelly Duwa, has consistently provided students with opportunities to develop their professional skills and compete at high levels. This year’s success reflects the dedication and hard work of both the students and the program.

A special thank you to our chaperones, Mindi Rees and Cindy Seberg, for accompanying our students to the conference. Their time, support, and encouragement played a crucial role in ensuring a positive and successful experience for all participants. We truly appreciate their commitment to our BPA students and their willingness to help make this event possible.

• Josh A – Advanced Desktop Publishing (1^st), Basic Desktop Publishing (3^rd)
• Carson B– Administrative Support Team (1^st)
• Ruby B – Health Administration (1^st)
• Ellie F – Administrative Support (1^st), Integrated Office Applications (3^rd)
• Ella G– Administrative Support Team (4^th), Intermediate Word Processing (5^th)
• Caden H– Administrative Support Team (3^rd), Integrated Office Applications (5^th)
• Aliza H – Integrated Office Applications (2^nd), Administrative Support Team (6^th)
• Nelly M – Health Care Administration (3^rd), Health Administration and Billing
• Aleigha M – Database Applications (1^st)
• Carys M – Administrative Support Team (1^st)
• Kaleb O – Integrated Office Applications (1^st), Administrative Support Team (3rd)
• Abby P– Basic Office Systems and Procedures
• Johan R – Advanced Desktop Publishing (5^th)
• Blaine R – Administrative Support Team (3^rd)
• Joseph S– Administrative Support Team (3^rd)
• Rachel S– Administrative Support Team (4^th)
• Sydney S– Integrated Office Applications (4^th), Administrative Support Team (6^th)
• Mia S – Advanced Office Systems and Procedures (2^nd)
• Cole V – Advanced Desktop Publishing (2^nd)
• Ruby W– Fundamental Desktop Publishing (1^st), Administrative Support Team (4^th)
• Grant W – Advanced Desktop Publishing (4^th)

   

   

  Six Earn Honorable Mention (Top 10):

   

   

• Jax W – Advanced Desktop Publishing (6^th)
• Callie S – Advanced Spreadsheet Applications (8^th)
• Rafael M – Administrative Support Team (10^th)
• Blaine R – Fundamental Spreadsheet Applications (7^th), Administrative Support Team (10^th)
• Jocelyn C – Health Administration Procedures (10^th)
• Aleigha M – Intermediate Word Processing (6^th)

The BPA National Leadership Conference is one of the largest career and technical student organization events in the country, offering students the chance to compete in business-related events, attend professional development workshops, and network with industry professionals. The conference features competitions in finance, digital communication, administrative support, information technology, and marketing.

In addition to the competitive events, students will have the opportunity to attend leadership training, participate in networking activities, and explore career pathways. The event also allows students to experience Orlando’s attractions, making it both an educational and rewarding experience.

With the national competition just a few months away, Washington High School’s qualifiers will continue refining their skills and preparing for their respective events. Representing their school and state on a national level is a remarkable accomplishment, and the students are eager to showcase their abilities among the best in the country.

Congratulations to all competitors, and best of luck to those advancing to nationals in Orlando!