DECA

1.) Who is the sponsor?

A: Melissa Trochim, Lori Moore and Mike Freedline

2.) Where do they meet?

A: Really, it’s a co-curricular class, so any time we have information to give to our students, we just talk about it in our marketing classes, Marketing I and II.

3.) Other than these classes, do they meet at all outside of school?

A: Our officers usually have morning meetings if they need to get something done.

4.) What kind of events does DECA participate in?

A: We have an individual series, which ranges from apparels and accessories through hotel and lodging through sports and entertainment, restaurant and food, marketing management. We have an individual series of I would say close to 12 events, and then we have team events, and then we have an abundance of written events. We give students many options as to how they want to compete.

5.) What are the costs or fees associated with the club?

A: At the beginning of the school year, the students pay $15-$20 depending on the year. That pays for their national, state and local dues. That also gets them a free t-shirt. In the fall if they choose to go to State Fall Leadership Conference, they pay for that. This past year we went to Central Region Conference, and they students paid for that. Once January and February roll around, the district starts to pay for their trips.

6.) Why do you have this club?

A: It’s important to be able to take the marketing information that students learn and be able to apply it in real-world situations. Since its co-curricular, it’s a draw for many students to take Marketing I and Marketing II so they can have the opportunity to be in DECA. Essentially, you can’t join unless you’re in the class.

7.) How are meetings run?

A: Usually, the president and the advisors meet and we kind of go through what we need to cover, and then the president will give different jobs to the VP and the other officers.

8.) What is the overall goal of the club?

A: The overall goal is to give students the opportunity to build college applications, resumes and networking skills. Students who want to belong to a club but not compete have a home, as well as those who compete. Their ultimate goal is to make it to international competition.

9.) How long has this club been at FHN?

A: I’ve been here for 13 years and it’s been here prior. I would say that it’s been here probably as long as the school has been open and we’ve offered marketing.