top of page

What is an STO?

A State Thespian Officer (STO) is a student leader who represents high school Thespians across Ohio. STOs are a part of the Ohio EdTA (Educational Theatre Association) Board of Directors, working alongside adult members to help plan and organize theatre events throughout the state.

As an STO, you have the opportunity to...

Have a Voice & Connect with Others

You help make decisions and represent Thespians from all over the state. At OTF, you introduce shows, network with theatre students, and serve as a resource for Thespians.

Plan Events

You assist in organizing major events like the Ohio Thespian Expo and Ohio Thespian Festival.

Lead Workshops

You can run leadership and theatre-related workshops for fellow students at Ohio Thespian events.

Design & Fundraise

You help choose the theme for OTF, design t-shirts, and lead fundraising efforts to support Ohio Thespian Scholarships and programs.

Leadership & Service

Being an STO is an amazing opportunity to grow as a leader, make a difference in your theatre community, and connect with passionate theatre students from across the state!

Responsibilities

​Meeting & Event Attendance

  • Attend all Board meetings, which are typically held in September, December, February, and May.

  • Be present at both Fall Festival and State Conference.

  • If unable to attend a meeting, notify the STO Coordinators in advance.

  • Understand that excessive absences may result in removal from the position.

The Application Process

1

Complete the STO Application

Print & filll out the

STO Application Form

2

Troupe Director Recommendation

Ask your Troupe Director to complete the Troupe Director Recommendation Form

3

Teacher Recommendation

Ask a teacher who is NOT your Troupe Director to complete the Teacher Recommendation Form.

4

Principal & Guidance Counselor Confirmation

Have your Principal & Guidance Counselor complete the Principal & Guidance Form

5

Personal Essay

Write a short essay explaining why you want to be an STO, including your goals and qualifications

6

Final Submission

Attach all required forms to the STO Application Google Form linked below and submit.

​

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Educational Theatre Association: Ohio Chapter is to educate and advocate for diverse and inclusive experiences for all through accessible programming and opportunities that develop essential skills, empathy, and a lifelong passion for theatre.

© 2026

Ohio Educational Theatre Association

1097 Westfield Circle, Painesville, OH 44077

  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • TikTok
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
EdTA_Ohio_Logo_FC_RGB_WEB_TM_DK-01.png
HonorChapter_medallion_GOLD_2022_WEB-150x150.png
bottom of page