Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is an association that develops students’ business and leadership skills through academic conferences and competitions.
A small number of students were selected to go to the state DECA competition in February and March to complete their roleplay, manual, or virtual business. Roleplays are an engaging activity to help students learn through problem-solving and creating original solutions with practical outcomes. A manual is a 20-page paper written for a particular category, such as Sales Projects or Community giving. Lastly, virtual business is an online stimulation event that challenges students to manage tasks in an online business.
There was a buzz of excitement around states. Ms. Chirco explained one reason for this was the size of this year’s DECA team: a record 51 students.
The competition took place in Atlantic City, New Jersey. At states, students spent the first few days practicing their events. Students competed by presenting their projects to a judge, and they then had the rest of the trip to enjoy themselves.
The initial excitement for the trip was warranted. Highland Park DECA had 15 students qualify at the states in Atlantic City for the international conference in Florida. Let’s wish the DECA team good luck with their coming competition!