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HHS students set sights on BPA conference in Nashville

Students from Hopkinton High School’s Business Professionals of America chapter pose for a photo after a recent state competition.

A group of Hopkinton High School students will compete in the Business Professionals of America’s national conference in May.

According to Doug Scott, business, technology and engineering subject matter leader for Hopkinton Public Schools and BPA advisor for HHS, the school is sending 22 students to BPA’s National Leadership Conference happening May 6-10. The students previously competed with 400 students around the state before earning their spots at nationals.

“They’ll compete against roughly 7,000 students from around the country,” explained Scott.

BPA is a co-curricular organization that offers students opportunities in career and technical education through competition, community service and personal development. It provides support for students looking to pursue careers in business management, information technology, finance, accounting, office administration and other business career fields, according to its website.

“It’s a nice way for kids to explore beyond their academics,” said Scott.

He noted that BPA is a good match for Hopkinton schools because of the diversity of its business-related offerings to students. He also expressed appreciation for the HPS staff and business leaders in the community for their participation and mentorship.

“As they prepare, they work with not only myself but also other staff members here at the high school and also mentors outside,” said Scott. “We pair them up with people in professions that align with the competitive event they participate in.”

Scott recounted how one student based her project around interviewing skills. In the course of developing the project, the student was able to interview Superintendent Evan Bishop as well as members of the HPS human resources team, he explained. “When [administrators] get involved and see what the kids are doing, it’s nice,” he said.

Beyond competitions, the 22 students will participate in leadership workshops during the conference. They also will have access to certification exams. Scott added that two of his students were elected to state officer positions.

— NICK SCHOFIELD

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Photo of the Day

Youngsters take part in last weekend’s Mini Golf at the Library event at the Hopkinton Public Library.

PHOTO/JOHN CARDILLO