DECA: Building Dedication

Story & Graphic by Emerson Godfrey – Assistant Copy Editor

   Each student has their own interests. A lot of times, that is art, music, science, sports, or something in between. Luckily, at Lee’s Summit North, these opportunities to cultivate passions are open to everyone. Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is an organization that a lot of LSN students participate in. DECA is for students interested in marketing and competing.

   “It is an opportunity for my marketing students to show what they know in the marketing field,” Katie Wilson, DECA Advisor, said.

   DECA members go to competitions to showcase their expertise. Students put in a lot of dedication and work into preparing for competitions.

   “It is within our curriculum, so we practice role plays in class. We do it as part of assignments. We have study materials called DECA+, where you can take practice tests, you can look at vocab cards, practice role plays, all the things,” Wilson said.

   DECA competitions are big, and students compete in different areas across the country. Students test over a variety of categories like entrepreneurship, business administration, and marketing. Wilson suggests joining DECA, even if students are unsure about it.

   “And I have seen kids that maybe do not stand out in class, and they are very, very quiet, and they are to themselves. And then they go to DECA, and all of a sudden, they see their potential, and they get excited, and I have seen kids flourish in this club, and it just gives kids a chance to try something new,” Wilson said.

   DECA is overall a great experience for students who decide to try something new.

   “Just try it. It doesn’t take a ton, and it ends up being some of the best times for the students that really take a chance on it,” Wilson said.

   Be sure to take the chances at LSN, like DECA, to build on previous passions or to try something new.