DECA (formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America) is a non-profit organization helping to build the next generation of entrepreneurs at Scituate High School. With more than 200,000 high school members nationwide, DECA teaches students to be prepared, responsible, and financially astute.
In a recent survey of SHS DECA participants, 98% said they gained problem-solving skills, which can benefit their achievement in business and other academic disciplines.
DECA hosts competitions for different schools worldwide, allowing students to demonstrate various marketing and business strategy skills. Students who qualify at the district level can attend state, national, and international competitions. Winners are awarded up to $200,000 in scholarships.
On December 7th and 8th, Scituate High School’s DECA team, led by business teacher Ross Maki, sent 78 students to the DECA District Academic Competition at the Seacrest Resort in Falmouth: 22 freshmen, 17 sophomores, 23 juniors, and 16 seniors represented SHS at the competition. According to Maki, students were challenged with “problem-solving and presenting solutions to various case studies within their respective chosen business category” as they competed against students from other high schools within the DECA District.
As a result of the competition, several SHS students qualified for the state competition, which will be held in Boston.
SHS sophomore Brennan Lazcano attended the competition. Although he is new to DECA, he already feels it will significantly improve his marketing skills. He commented, “There are a lot of ways DECA can help you in the real world and when you’re older.”
SHS sophomore Cecilia Rowins, who also attended the competition, joined DECA this fall and thinks membership can help with any business class. She said participating in the program improves “communication skills and being able to present in a big group.” In a typical class, students are assigned a subject, and their research expands their knowledge on that topic. Next, they present to a group to help them learn more about the topic.
Beyond expanding a student’s knowledge and presentation skills, DECA can help support a student in many facets of leadership. Working as a team, students develop strategies for creative solutions and problem-solving.
If you are interested in learning more about DECA, see Mr. Maki or check out the SHS DECA Instagram page: @scituatedeca23.