FAQ

What is DECA?

DECA stands for Distributive Education Clubs of America, and works to "prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe." At Camas High School, our DECA chapter is built on this mission, as students in Camas DECA learn professional development skills through events such as role-plays, and written projects. In role-plays, students learn how to handle situations that one might experience in marketing, finance, hospitality and management careers. In written events, students can work with each other, local businesses, and local professionals to create projects that make positive contributions to local businesses and our community as a whole. DECA is an excellent opportunity to learn how to effectively present oneself and build both professional and community relationships. 

How do I join DECA?

Students at CHS can join by signing up for the DECA program in any of our available DECA classes such as Intro to Marketing, Intro to Business, Advanced Marketing, Student Store, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Economics. Students joining DECA may fill out the sign-up sheet in their class at the beginning of the school year or directly see a Camas DECA advisor about joining the program. 

What are the DECA classes I can enroll in?

DECA classes at CHS include Intro to Marketing, Intro to Business, Advanced Marketing, Student Store, AP Macroeconomics, and AP Economics.

What is DECA competition like?

In DECA competition, students either present themselves to judges in a role-play event or in a pre-planned presentation of a written project. In addition to the presentations, students take a test that corresponds to the subject-area of their event. For example, a student who performs an entrepreneurship category role-play also takes the DECA entrepreneurship test. All DECA competition is based on developing students' ability to present themselves professionally and to convey their ideas with passion. The competition environment is mainly in rooms with individual or 2-3 person groups of judges. 

What kinds of DECA competitions take place?

The first competition is the Area 9 competition, in which students from schools from around Clark County compete for advancement to the State Career and Development Conference. From state, students compete to advance to the International Career and Development Conference. 

 If I'm not comfortable with public speaking, should I join DECA?

ABSOLUTELY! DECA is a fantastic (and fun) way to improve your public speaking skills. By working on their skills in DECA events such as role-plays and project presentations, students are able to develop strong confidence in their public speaking abilities.