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Killeen ISD Shines at Texas HOSA Area 5 Competition, 14 Students Advance to State

The Texas HOSA Area 5 Competition, held at Ben Barber Innovation Academy in Mansfield, Texas, provided a thrilling showcase of healthcare knowledge and skills among high school students across the region. This annual event celebrates the dedication and talent of aspiring healthcare professionals, offering them a stage to excel in competitive events and prepare for future careers in the medical field.
Representing Killeen ISD with pride were students from the Career Center, Harker Heights High School, Killeen High School, and Shoemaker High School. Demonstrating exceptional skill and determination, 14 Killeen ISD students earned coveted spots at the State HOSA Competition, set for April 15-17, 2025, in Round Rock, Texas.
“I am incredibly proud of each of my students who competed at the HOSA Area V Spring Leadership Conference,” said Leah Behymer, HOSA Advisor at the KISD Career Center. “From countless hours of preparation to moments of nerves and excitement as they presented, every step of this journey has been a testament to their hard work and dedication. Watching them stand tall as their names were called on stage was a reminder of their growth, resilience, and the success they’ve earned. This experience has created lasting memories and shown the power of commitment, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. I couldn’t be prouder!”
Participants competed in a variety of events, such as Medical Assisting, CPR/First Aid, Medical Innovation, and Health Career Awareness. These events tested theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and teamwork, preparing students for real-world healthcare scenarios.
Among the standout participants was Sophia Vo of Harker Heights High School, who claimed first place in the Family Medicine Physician event. “Participating in this event was very special to me,” Sophia said. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and the support I received! When the HOSA Area 5 officers called my name, I was speechless. I worked tremendously hard for this competition, and I am proud of myself and everyone who worked hard alongside me.” Her advice to peers: “Don’t ever give up. If you are genuinely passionate about something, you can do it.”
The event celebrated individual accomplishments and underscored the importance of teamwork, with many competitions requiring students to collaborate and demonstrate leadership under pressure.
Advancing to the State HOSA Competition:
Health Career Display (3rd Place)
- Marlyncia Hatcher
- Akeila Harris
Epidemiology (2nd Place)
- Christina Watt
Emergency Medical Technician (2nd Place)
- Madeline Dano
- Dasmari Duran
Emergency Medical Technician (3rd Place)
- Scott Tyler
- Reyli Rodriguez
Life Support Skills (2nd Place)
- Johnathan Gutierrez
Speaking Skills (2nd Place)
- Tre’Varion Robinson
Interview Skills (1st Place)
- Chandler Vann
Life Support Skills (3rd Place)
- Haley Leikam
Speaking Skills (1st Place)
- Diamond Hughes
Family Medicine Physician (1st Place)
- Sophia Vo
Family Medicine Physician (2nd Place)
- Alana Curtis
Additional Top-Five Achievements:
Mental Health Promotion (5th Place)
- Alana Curtis
- Juliette Mercado Torres
- Gabriella DelPilar
- Isabel Arzola
- Amiah Taylor
- Trinity Tate
Research Poster (5th Place)
- Jaiden Smith
Medical Art Poster (5th Place)
- Ruby Lujan Soto
Phlebotomy (5th Place)
- Taylor Chase
Sports Medicine (5th Place)
- Aryanna Castro
Forensic Science (4th Place)
- Ismael Willybiro
- Paola Alberty
Congratulations to all participants for their hard work and achievements. Events like the Texas HOSA Area 5 Competition continue to inspire and prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders, fostering a spirit of excellence and dedication that will carry them into successful careers.