Louisiana Administrative Code
Title 28 - EDUCATION
Part LXVII - Bulletin 1977-Business Education Content Standards Curriculum Framework for Louisiana
Chapter 9 - Appendix
Section LXVII-913 - Future Business Leaders of America

A. Membership in vocational student organizations is encouraged for individuals enrolled in vocational education programs which engage in activities as an integral part of the instructional program. The vocational student organization for Business Education at the secondary level is the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). In addition to FBLA for high school students (grades 9-12), there are three other divisions: FBLA-Middle Level for junior high and intermediate school students (grades 5-8); PBL (Phi Beta Lambda) for postsecondary students; and a Professional division for business people, educators, and parents who support the goals of the association.

B. FBLA contributes significantly to the motivation, education, and total development of students through activities that develop leadership abilities, citizenship skills, social competencies, and a wholesome attitude about living and working. As a unique teaching tool, FBLA enhances, enriches, complements, and supplements the business education program as indicated by the nine national goals of FBLA:

C. Louisiana's first chapter of FBLA was organized at Natchitoches High School in 1947. In 1949 the representatives of the three organized chapters in the state met with Richard D. Clanton to form the Louisiana State Chapter. Mr. Clanton, adviser at Bolton High School, was elected State Adviser, and work began on a state constitution. In 1950, the State Chapter, with 13 chapters chartered, adopted the constitution.

D. Membership increased and Louisiana led the nation in the number of local chapters in attendance at the National Leadership Conference. Jeron LaFargue from Sulphur High served as the first national president of FBLA in 1952-53. Since then five other Louisianans have served as FBLA national president.

E. Currently, Louisiana is divided into seven districts, each with an elected vice president. The state chapter is governed by the state executive council composed of student officers: a president, the vice presidents from each district, a secretary, a treasurer, a reporter, and a parliamentarian. Local chapter advisers of the officers serve as ex-officio members of the council with the State Chair. There are over nine thousand members in 252 active chapters of FBLA in Louisiana.

F. Conferences held throughout the year allow students to interact with students from all over the state and nation as well as business and industry representatives. Leadership abilities and group interaction skills are strengthened by participation at these conferences. Students reinforce business skills and knowledge by competing in individual and team events on district, state, and national levels. The competitive FBLA events are:

G. Future Business Leaders of America programs are designed to encourage students to set career goals, develop self-confidence, learn about the problems and opportunities inherent in American business, and gain actual business experience during their school years. Through involvement in school and community, members learn the importance of developing their abilities to the fullest and build the confidence necessary to realize their potential.

H. Students continuing their education at the university level should consider becoming involved with the postsecondary division, Phi Beta Lambda (PBL). Students who continue their education in the Louisiana Technical College System should consider membership in Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) or Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA).