A LEGISLATIVE COMMEMORATION recognizing February as National Career and Technical Education and National Career and Technical Student Organizations Month.

WHEREAS, South Dakota career and technical education reaches more than 30,000 students in grades 7-12 and equips these students with essential skills such as adaptability, motivation to grow, and a passion about an industry, alongside job-specific skills; and

WHEREAS, South Dakota career and technical educators provide unique and hands-on experiences that empower and prepare students to be leaders in their future careers; and

WHEREAS, South Dakota career and technical student organizations enrich students with opportunities for professional development, leadership, and industry-specific skills by collaborating with educators and industry professionals; and

WHEREAS, South Dakota career and technical student organizations continue to grow in size and depth of programming, with current membership numbers including 6,500 FFA members, 500 Future Business Leaders of America members, 1,300 HOSA-Future Health Professionals members, 500 SkillsUSA members, 600 Educators Rising members, and 1,600 Family, Career and Community Leaders of America members; and

WHEREAS, South Dakota career and technical student organizations continue to inspire young leaders to explore diverse career paths within their respective organization by traveling the state and visiting other chapters, by providing leadership lessons, and by connecting with industry professionals to help bridge the gap between the classroom and professional careers;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT COMMEMORATED, by the One Hundred First Legislature of the State of South Dakota, that February is recognized as National Career and Technical Education and National Career and Technical Student Organization month.