iUniversity Prep, GCISD’s online school that is ranked as #1 in Texas and #2 in the nation, launched DECA this school year as part of the district’s Career and Technical Education ongoing efforts to grow career readiness opportunities for students. DECA is a student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management, and has been offered for many years at Colleyville Heritage and Grapevine high schools with great success through GCISD’s CTE program.
Carolyn Province, iUP business and marketing teacher who formerly taught CTE courses at GHS, said that “the goals of DECA align perfectly with the CTE courses and provide experiences for students.”
More than 40 iUP students signed up for DECA this inaugural year. The chapter has provided student leadership training, guest speakers and participation in DECA conferences and events, including the DECA state competition.
iUP’s DECA chapter has also taken field trips, including to AT&T Stadium to see the Dallas Cowboys operations to learn about the various career opportunities in a professional sports team other than becoming a professional athlete. On February 27, they will be going to the American Airlines Center to see first-hand many career fields within the Dallas Mavericks organization and hear from their public relations professionals, ticket sales team and more. They will also have a chance to stay for the game that evening to see the Mavericks take on the Charlotte Hornets.
All of these experiences, according to Province, are helping students build friendships, network with classmates and develop skills to use now and into the future.
iUP’s DECA Chapter President Julia Thienvanich agreed.
“I used to be fearful of speaking in front of others, but now I can lead meetings without butterflies in my stomach,” she shared. “It has not only refined my communication skills, but also strengthened my confidence in myself and my ability to speak with people.”
She added that “the buzz among students about DECA is that the organization offers various opportunities for growth and exciting events. We have the chance to build a strong foundation for the next years to come where students can develop real-world skills, connect with peers, and gain confidence in their abilities.”