By: Theresa Schuetz

GS has welcomed a new business-based club, Distributive Education Clubs of America, DECA.  

DECA was put together in November of 2024 allowing students who joined a month to prepare for Districts. Although it was last minute, students persevered and nine of the students who competed qualified for States.  

“Kids had less than a month to choose their testing area and prepare,” Business teacher Mrs. Rachael Pozik said.  

Before DECA was formed, GS lacked a business club. This new opportunity allows students to further explore their passion or open new interests in the business field, whether that be finance, entrepreneurship, business management, hospitality, marketing or personal financial literacy.  

“I originally wasn’t interested in business for the future, but DECA has made me think about possibly going into business,” sophomore Lola Slavnik said. 

Students chose from the five categories to decide which one they wanted to compete in. Districts were held at Duquesne University and consisted of a 100-question standardized test in the area the student chose. The students then got a specific scenario and had 10 minutes to prepare and act out what they’d do in that scenario. 

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DECA club members pose for a photo outside of Duquesne University.

Photo Courtesy: Mrs. Pozik

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“Students don’t know what scenario they’re getting, and they have 10 minutes to prepare,” Mrs. Pozik said. “After preparing, they then go into another room and present their solution to a judge.” 

Not only does it allow students to explore their personal passions, but it gives them access to scholarships and new opportunities throughout college while exploring what they may be enthusiastic about learning as well.  

“Business has always been something I’ve been interested in since I was little,” sophomore Bryce Ferace said. “I have always wanted to own my own business and still do; I have a photography business in the making that I’m opening in April. So DECA will also help me learn more information.” 

Students and Pozik are continuously preparing for States, which will be held this month in Hershey, PA.  

“Mr. Brinton is going to States with us, we’re both chaperoning,” Pozik said. “It should be fun, I’m excited, but the last month has been stressful.”