[steinra]

You are running into what we are in Idaho as well. We need to get either legislation or state board of education changes to recognize it as an organization like SkillsUSA, DECA, FFA, etc. It also comes down to what is recognized as part of grant systems like Perkins at the state level for funding (stipends, program management, etc). I think other states have run into this as well and have had legislation help get past these boundaries. That is what we are working towards. Look to Hawaii, Washington, Oregon and Utah for examples of how they have made that happen.

One of the items asked of me during a conversation with the state board of education groups is, "... does the state need a program manager (like they have for Skills, TSA, FFA) to work for FIRST too?" So there are many layers to this issue to be recognized as a student leader organization.

I agree the program has the ability to have exceptional student led programs, we have seen many at events and the mentor involvement should enhance that as they guide and encourage those leaders.

Keep up the good fight, we will get there someday!

Randy