Become a State Thespian Officer!

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What is an STO and who can be a STO Member?
STO stands for State Thespian Officer.
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The STO's job is to plan, host, and manage the upcoming Texas State Thespian Festival and Leadership Days around the state. The STO also serve as advocates for their fellow High School Thespians. 

Any freshman, sophomore or junior who is an inducted Thespian and is in good standing with his/her troupe may run for office.                                                                                     

The student must be prepared to work hard for their fellow Texas Thespians.  Only one student per school may run. 
 ​Think you have what it takes?
​Read What is a Leader? ​
How do I become an STO?
In order to be considered for candidacy: 
  • Students must first have their director submit an email of sponsorship; speaking to the student’s character, saying that they support the student in the candidacy process and that they understand the duties and responsibilities of an STO if their student is elected into Submittable. 
  • Students must then also complete the STO Candidacy Application form, linked in the "Become a STO" icon.
  • NEXT: ​All candidates are required to participate in the Pre-Festival Candidate Process which includes; a letter of support and understanding from their administration, and a letter of recommendation from a non-fine arts teacher be sent to Mrs. Morgan, phone interviews, and Pre-Festival online meetings prior to festival. See STO Candidate Handout . 
  • You will also record a slate video and upload to YouTube that includes the following information: your name, your school, your troupe number, and your current grade level ("Freshman", "Sophomore", "Junior") as a part of the application. You will attach the YouTube link for private viewing (unlisted) as part of your application. 
  • There is no general campaigning to become an STO. After applications and qualifications are reviewed and jobs at festival completed, a vote of the incoming officers will be taken by the current officers and STO sponsors during festival.
  • More info to come, an email will be sent after your application and letter of sponsorship are received.

Video on How to: STO Candidacy

STO Candidate Handout 
Click the Icon 

Include the documents below in your application!
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What are the expectations of the STO?
  • To serve Texas Thespians for one year (February 14th - July 1st of the following year)
  • To attend various meetings, workshops and festivals throughout the year
  • Transportation costs and rooming arrangements are the responsibility of the student and school
  • Must have the ability to stay in constant communication with fellow STO members, regional students, the adult board, and Thespians in general via email, video conference and social media
  • Must meet bi-monthly deadlines and have good time management skills
  • Must be proactive and responsible
  • Must travel to surrounding schools to see shows and support the Thespian troupes in his/her region
  • Must serve as an example of the ideal Thespian
  • Read the STO Bylaws here​
If Elected--
  • Attend the MANDATORY STO and Director Meeting at Festival 
  • Attend the MANDATORY STO Intensive Board Retreat in the summer (date TBA)
  • ​Attend the MANDATORY Board Planning Meeting, typically in either September/October and set up at retreat/end of the summer based on JFest information and dates
  • Flexibility, Professionalism, and Leadership skills are a must
  • Plan to arrive at Texas Thespian Festival early
  • Constant communication is a MUST
  • Keep a positive attitude, respect for your peers, the adults and theatre​

 What is the responsibility of the Troupe Director if his/her Thespian is elected to the STO?
  • Moral support and troupe support of the Student Thespian Officer member
  • Through the troupe (if possible), it is suggested to provide financial assistance for lodging and transportation for STO member
  • Troupe directors must also work at STO sponsored events during Festival as they are assigned along with their festival duties
  • To notify STO Liaison of any changes, problems or issues that may keep the STO from succeeding

Running for International Thespian Officer?
While any student who is not a previous or current STO may run for the EDTA ITO Program, self-nominated candidates are requested to notify the Texas Thespians Executive Governing Board as an act of goodwill.