STUDENTS AWARDED SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL AWARD! 

After months of hard work promoting career and technical education, students from San Pasqual High School (SPHS) DECA were honored with the prestigious Special Congressional Achievement Award. This recognition came after their impressive efforts in the DECA Advocacy Campaign, where they actively engaged with local leaders, promoted DECA’s mission, and demonstrated their commitment to leadership, education, and service. Congratulations to those who were awarded: 

Xavier Becerril (11)

Lena Devine (12)

Olivia Garcia (12)

Rachel Hodgson (10)

Juliet Lopez (11)

Denise Medina (11)

Misha Patel (11)

Jacob Whitney (12)

These DECA students took part in a meeting with congressional leader, Darrell Issa's representative team to discuss the importance of funding and ongoing support for career and technical education programs. During these conversations, students shared personal experiences and highlighted the impact DECA has had on their professional development. Congressional representatives responded positively, pledging their support for increased funding and resources to help programs like DECA continue to thrive. These meetings emphasized the vital role student organizations play in building a strong, prepared workforce for the future. 

The Special Congressional Achievement Award is given to individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to their communities or fields of expertise. It is a national honor, and fewer than 500 people across the country are selected to receive it each year. This makes SPHS DECA’s achievement even more remarkable, standing out among thousands of organizations and students nationwide. 

Through the Advocacy Campaign, SPHS DECA members worked to raise awareness about the importance of DECA programs in preparing students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Their initiatives included meeting with elected officials, participating in community outreach events, and creating promotional materials to share DECA’s impact. Their efforts not only raised the profile of their local chapter but also contributed to the broader mission of strengthening support for career and technical education at the state and national levels. 

This award reflects the exceptional drive, teamwork, and leadership shown by SPHS DECA students. Their dedication to advocacy and excellence continues to make a lasting impact on their school, their community, and beyond. SPHS DECA looks forward to building on this success as they continue their journey of growth, service, and achievement.