Tonia Schaeffer, Jim Thorpe high school business and computer science teacher, made a proposal to the school board this week to establish a Future Business Leaders of America club.

FBLA is a nonprofit educational association focused on students who are drawn to the world of business, either as a career choice or just a general interest. The group seeks to help students develop leadership abilities, as well as learn how to enter and advance within the business market.“It provides a better understanding of the business world and entrepreneurship. It also provides an opportunity to practice interview techniques and resume-building for future jobs,” Schaeffer said.Schaeffer’s motivation for establishing the chapter was kindled by a senior’s interest in the group.“Marni Quevedo approached me after learning more about an FBLA chapter run at another local school district. After speaking with students, Marni and I have been able to gain interest from 29 students who are also interested in this organization. I anticipate more students wanting to get involved once they fully understand the scope and capabilities of an FBLA chapter,” Schaeffer said in her proposal. In addition, Schaeffer drew inspiration from her own personal experience with everything that FBLA has to offer.“When I was in high school, I was a really active member of FBLA. I was an officer in my local chapter, and I participated in regional and state competitions,” Schaeffer said.FBLA groups participate in community service events, blood drives, career fairs, leadership workshops, and regional competitions that center around business and the free enterprise system.Funding for the organization will tentatively be supplied by annual membership dues, as well as student fundraisers. Within the proposal, Schaeffer requested a stipend for advising the group, due to the amount of time and energy that it will demand, especially in regard to off-campus activities and competitions.“This organization provided me an extensive amount of business knowledge and experience that is beneficial for all of our students to experience,” Schaeffer said in her proposal’s conclusion.“It’s something all of our students need to have in order to be successful in their futures.”