DECA is an international organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in high schools and colleges worldwide. The organization's name originally stood for "Distributive Education Clubs of America," but now it is simply known as DECA.
DECA provides students with opportunities to develop their marketing, finance, hospitality, management, and entrepreneurship skills through competitions, leadership conferences, and networking events. DECA also offers a variety of resources, such as educational materials and scholarships, to support student growth and success.
DECA has over 220,000 members in all 50 United States, as well as Canada, China, Germany, Guam, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Spain. It is a non-profit organization committed to helping students prepare for careers in business and entrepreneurship.
Finding Community
High school can be a challenging transition for many students. Getting involved early in extracurricular activities such as DECA can help students find a sense of community and belonging. It can also provide an opportunity to make new friends with similar interests.
Skill Building
Many extracurricular activities, such as DECA, offer opportunities for students to build important skills such as communication, teamwork, leadership, and time management. By getting involved early in high school, freshmen have the opportunity to develop these skills early on and hone them throughout their high school experience.
Discovering Interests
High school is a time for exploration and discovery. Getting involved early in extracurricular activities can help freshmen discover their interests and passions. It can also help them figure out what they want to pursue in college and beyond.
Building Confidence
Participating in extracurricular activities such as DECA can help freshmen build confidence and self-esteem. By taking on challenges and learning new skills, students can develop a sense of pride in their abilities, which can be beneficial throughout their high school experience and beyond.
Professional Development
DECA offers various opportunities for high school students to enhance their skills and knowledge in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. By participating in DECA, students can attend conferences, workshops, and competitions to learn about the latest trends and practices in their fields of interest. This exposure can help them gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college and future careers.
College and Career Readiness
DECA's programs and competitions are designed to help students develop the skills needed to succeed in college and careers. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and teamwork. Participating in DECA can help students build a strong foundation for success in college and beyond.
Networking Opportunities
DECA offers opportunities for high school students to network with professionals and peers in their fields of interest. Students can meet with industry experts, business leaders, and college representatives, which can help them learn more about potential career paths and gain insight into the college application process.
College Scholarships
DECA offers scholarships to high school students who excel in its programs and competitions. These scholarships help students offset the cost of college and pursue their academic and career goals.
DECA is one of a kind and the perfect club for student-athletes on campus because it offers a unique opportunity to develop business and leadership skills in a way that fits their busy schedule. One of the benefits of DECA is that besides the conferences, most of the work is done in the Honors Entrepreneurship class. DECA material has been integrated into the curriculum. This means that student-athletes can participate in DECA activities and projects as part of their regular coursework, without sacrificing their athletic commitments.
MEET THE ADVISOR - MS. MARQUEZ
Ms. Marquez has a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship. With 21 years of entrepreneurial experience prior to stepping into the classroom, she brings a unique perspective and real-world knowledge to her role as an Honors Entrepreneurship Teacher and DECA advisor.
She is passionate about helping her students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the world of business. She encourages her students to participate in DECA competitions and events, and provides them with the guidance and support needed to succeed.
Ms. Marquez is known for her dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to her students and DECA chapter. She is a skilled communicator and mentor, and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that her students and DECA members are successful.