Cody in the Lead: How One Student Is Inspiring Others Through Action at Insight School of Washington 

Public speaking doesn’t come easily to everyone and for Cody, a student at Insight School of Washington, it’s a challenge he’s been actively working to overcome. So, when he stood before the Quillayute Valley School District to deliver a presentation during their Spotlight on Success segment, highlighting his team’s accomplishments at the Business Professionals of America (BPA) National Competition, it wasn’t just a strong performance, it was a major milestone.

Cody’s presentation was a shining example of leadership, confidence, and collaboration; key skills picked up through his time in BPA and at Insight School of Washington. Though he was the one speaking in-person, Cody made sure to emphasize that the presentation was the result of a team effort from his fellow online supportive peer community. The impactful slide deck was developed alongside fellow BPA members, Victoria and Bailey, an embodiment of the team focus that Cody and his peers uphold in BPA. As Cody shared during the meeting, even individual achievements are backed by a team cheering you on, encouraging you, and helping you succeed.

This spirit of teamwork has been a common theme throughout Cody’s year as Parliamentarian of the BPA club. He played a key role in planning and presenting at the Insight School of Washington’s High School assembly celebrating Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), alongside fellow BPA leaders Destiney, Bailey, Victoria, and Za’Mari. Their efforts brought awareness and excitement to the opportunities CTSOs offer students across the state of Washington.

Cody also continues to thrive in Scouting America (formerly Boy Scouts of America), where he currently holds the rank of First Class, the highest in his troop. Over the past year, he’s earned five merit badges with the guidance of his parents, both of whom are actively involved in his troop. This summer, Cody will attend Camp Meriweather in Oregon, run a scouting skills station at a four-day Cub Scout camp, and participate in his community’s Fourth of July parade, all while working to rebuild his BMX bike and preparing for his next Court of Honor ceremony.

Academically, Cody continues to excel. He made the Honor Roll with straight A’s and remains committed to his personal growth and future goals. His experience attending BPA Nationals and job shadowing a national officer has fueled his excitement for what’s ahead, including a hopeful return to Nationals in 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Cody’s mom, Crystal, shared how proud she was of his preparation and performance at the school board meeting, while BPA advisor and CTE teacher, Dara Schultz added, “We’re looking forward to BPA in the fall with a strong leadership team already in place.” Whether he’s leading a presentation, earning patches, or cheering on his teammates, Cody is proving that leadership is most powerful when it’s shared, and his future is clearly one to watch.