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  2. DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America)

DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America)

Mission:

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

DECA, formerly known as Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit career and technical student organization (CTSO) with over 297,000 members across the U.S. and internationally. It focuses on preparing students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. DECA integrates into classroom instruction, connects students with businesses, and promotes competition. 

Here's a more detailed look at DECA:

What DECA does:

  • Integrates learning: 

    DECA activities are designed to be part of classroom instruction, providing practical, hands-on learning experiences. 

  • Connects to business: 

    DECA partners with businesses to give students real-world insights into different industries. 

  • Promotes competition: 

    Competitive events help members develop skills and improve their performance through challenges and evaluations. 

  • Develops leadership skills: 

    DECA's Emerging Leader Series focuses on goal setting, consensus building, and project implementation. 

DECA's impact:

  • Skill development: 

    DECA members report gaining skills in problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and personal/professional behavior.

  • Career and college preparation: 

    DECA influences career and college plans for many members, with a high percentage reporting that DECA prepared them academically for both.

  • Leadership development: 

    DECA experiences empower members to become effective leaders and connect school to the real world. 

DECA Structure:

  • Chapters: 

    DECA is organized into chapters, typically based in high schools, with a chapter advisor who is a school-recognized adult. 

  • Competitive Events: 

    DECA offers a wide range of competitive events, both prepared and unprepared, in various categories like role-plays, case studies, and online simulations. 

  • Conferences: 

    DECA hosts conferences at the district, association, and international levels, culminating in the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC).