DECA raising money for state, setting sights on nationals

photo or infographic by courtesy photo
Members of DECA competition team represented the school January 18th. Thirteen members of the team qualified for the state meet.
photo or infographic by Jeremy Harper
SMILING ALL THE WAY TO STATE. Sporting her medal, senior Demaris Pelayo is recognized for advancing place in Restaurant and Food Service Management.
photo or infographic by Jeremy Harper
PRESIDENTIAL STARE. Looking ready for competition, senior Carlos Barcenas concentrates while waiting for the competition. Barcenas is one of 13 members headed to state.
photo or infographic by courtesy photo
Members of DECA competition team represented the school January 18th. Thirteen members of the team qualified for the state meet.

Thirteen was the lucky number for DECA as the sailed through their first competition of the year. The group qualified 13 to the state competition in Fort Worth from February 20th to the 22nd.

There are two parts to the competition, a 100 question test and two role play interviews. With a passing score, a competitor can qualify for nationals in Nashville, Tennessee.

DECA prepares students for the business world through role play interviews.

“I’m studying role plays and past tests to prepare,” junior Ian Bracken said. “I’m really excited to get the chance to compete for a spot at nationals in Nashville, Tennessee.”

Many DECA members stay in the program for their entire high school career because of their friendships and the many learning opportunities it allows for.

“My favorite part about DECA is spending time with my friends, new experiences and the competitions,” junior Zane Rex said.

In order to ensure affordable trip rates for all of the competitors, DECA is working hard to raise money.

“We need to raise about $4,700 to go to Fort Worth,” sophomore Carson Rex said. “We’ve gotten sponsored by Raising Canes along with selling candy to raise the money.”

DECA members have been preparing for state. The ultimate goal is being prepared for the tough competition ahead on the way to nationals.

“We have 13 members going to state this year, and as president, I am making sure we are prepared in order to compete well this year,” senior Carlos Barcenas said. “I see great potential in all of the members, and I know that Willis is going to be represented well.”