The Distributive Education Clubs of America, also known as DECA, engages students with opportunities to grow and develop their leadership skills. DECA is organized around the goal to improve education and career opportunities for students interested in careers such as marketing, management, and entrepreneurship. Riley King, the president of DECA, joined the club during his sophomore year after some seniors who were in the club told him about it. King said, “I was already interested in business and marketing and stuff, and then my friends convinced me.”

To be a part of DECA, all that is required is that the student is enrolled in a marketing class. They have monthly meetings in Tiffany Tankut’s room, which is 608. They compete in different marketing areas, where they have to figure out a scenario on the spot related to their category. There are almost a hundred categories to pick from. King says, “I do automotive, but you can pick whatever you want.” The 2023 district competition is in Apple Blossom Mall, states is in Virginia Beach, and nationals is in Orlando, Fla. “We all plan to make it to states, or hope to, and then nationals we have four spots reserved for us.” King said.

Competing is not required to be a member of DECA. King said, “If you want to compete, that is definitely a bigger commitment and it just takes a lot of time and practice.” Being president, King has to dedicate more time to the club than some of the other members. DECA helps students learn valuable real-world skills and can lead to scholarship opportunities.