The East Ridge High School DECA Chapter had 41 students compete at the state level and 21 of these students were in the top 10 in the state of Florida. Of these 21 students, 13 students were recognized on stage for being in the top 6 and will receive trophies. These 13 exceptional students will also represent East Ridge at the International Career Development Conference in Orlando on April 27-30.
In all, 8 students got 1st, 1 student got 4th, 1 student got 5th and 3 students got 6th place. East Ridge DECA also had two students, Chloe Dougherty and Sarah Nour, who were awarded scholarships for their achievements and commitment in DECA.
East Ridge High was also awarded 3 prestigious awards from Florida DECA and National DECA for the work they have done this year. They earned a Gold Level Chapter Award from Florida DECA, a Thrive Level Award from National DECA and an award for all our contributions to the community.
Simone Seaton, Marketing Educator and DECA Advisor at East Ridge High, said of the competition, “East Ridge High School DECA participated in the Florida DECA State competition this weekend. The state competition had 1,900 attendees from all over Florida with approximately 25 participants in most events. The motivation was to make it to Nationals to represent Florida at the International Career Development Conference. East Ridge HS students did a great job!” Seaton continued by stating, “All in all, it was a great conference and East Ridge High School DECA did an outstanding job. Thanks to all the teachers and business partners who provided help to these students, it really made a difference…DECA students only compete at the district, state, and national level once a year, so this is a big deal for these students, especially the seniors who graduate in May.”
DECA, formerly known as the Distributive Education Clubs of America, provides education and career opportunities for students interested in careers in marketing, management, hospitality, finance, and entrepreneurship. DECA prepares the next generation to be: academically prepared, community oriented, and professionally responsible as well as develop leadership skills.
“The East Ridge High School DECA Chapter has grown tremendously over the years and each year we get better and do more,” Seaton said. “For the 2018-19 school year, our members have participated and organized numerous charity and community service events. Some of our charitable events include a special collection during October for GCCF and a college fair held at East Ridge with over 20 college representatives in attendance. We have also assisted local businesses within our community whenever we were needed.”
The East Ridge High School DECA Chapter is in need of sponsors to assist the group in covering expenses for its trip to the International Conference. The registration fee for the conference is $200 for each participant and this cost does not include accommodation. Individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring the East Ridge High School DECA Chapter are encouraged to contact Simone Seaton by calling (352) 242-2080 ext. 4672 or e-mailing seatons @lake.k12.fl.us.
