Nineteen students from St. Francis High School recently competed at the DECA District Competition, demonstrating strong skills in marketing, finance, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. Their hard work paid off, with 11 students qualifying to advance to the DECA State Competition.
At the district level, students participated in a variety of competitive events that required them to apply classroom knowledge to realistic business scenarios, role-play situations, and written projects. Students were evaluated by industry professionals on their creativity, professionalism, and ability to think strategically under pressure.
“Our students put in an incredible amount of time preparing for this competition,” said Lisa-Marie Schrag, DECA advisor. “Advancing 11 students to the state level is a tremendous accomplishment and a reflection of their dedication, confidence, and understanding of real-world business concepts.”
The students who qualified for the State DECA Competition will continue to refine their skills and prepare to represent SFHS at the next level of competition. The State DECA Competition will take place March 1-3 in Minneapolis, offering students the opportunity to earn recognition and qualify for DECA’s National Competition in Atlanta, Ga.
Congratulations to all 19 students who competed and to the 11 students advancing to the State DECA Competition.
State Qualifiers:
Skyler Algiere: Sales Demonstration - Soft Lines and Principles of Business Administration
Easton Bodenburg: Hospitality and Tourism Professional Selling Event
MaKenzie Boen: Principles of Hospitality & Tourism
Gavin Dommer: Principles of Finance
Alayna Haller: Sports & Entertainment Team Decision Making
Jack Humphrey: Employment Interview - Advanced Level, Quick Serve Restaurant Management and Food
Elsa Klein: Sports & Entertainment Team Decision Making
Carly Knapp: Sales Demonstration - General/Home Service Lines and Business Services Marketing Series
Ava Scandariato: Human Resources Management
Vivian Schibonski: Accounting Application Series and Chapter Gold
Grace Sundsrud: Sales Demonstration - General/Home Service Lines and Principles of Business Administration
About DECA: DECA is an international career and technical student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in business, marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Through competitive events, leadership development, and real-world application, DECA helps students develop critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s workforce.