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CTE & CTSOs 101: The Basics (But Better)
CTE gives you a massive head start and crucial exposure with real-world skills, industry-level gear and the kind of experiences that make a resume stand out. Let’s dive into why these acronyms are so crucial!
Tips for Small Chapter Growth
Although new chapter obstacles often felt insurmountable, every successful chapter begins in the same position. Here is a quick guide to help your DECA chapter prepare for future success!
Small Steps, Big Impact: Go the Extra During CTE Month
This month is your moment to step not only into the professional realm, but also the legislative realm. Here’s a look at how you can meet with your elected officials during CTE Month and beyond.
How Every Student Can Advocate for CTE
Advocacy does not require a title, a podium or even a formal meeting. It starts with everyday actions and intentional choices that elevate the value of CTE in schools, communities, DECA and beyond.
February is CTE Month: Tips for Getting Involved
Advocacy is something every DECA member can take part in. Check out these advocacy tips shared by DECA members who have seen firsthand how speaking up can create opportunities and protect funding.
The DECA Drop Episode 3: Campaigning and Competition Season
Your 2025–2026 Executive Officer Team saw how podcasts were taking off and wanted to give DECA members the same kind of experience: a place to pick up tips, hear updates and get to know our team!
Why CTE and DECA Advocacy Matters
Each February, students and advisors raise awareness of career and technical education (CTE) by celebrating Career and Technical Education Month®. Learn how to get involved and earn recognition through DECA’s Advocacy Campaign!
Advisor Best Practice Spotlight of the Week: Bouchra Elgaou
DECA advisor Bouchra Elgaou has helped transform sustainability from an idea into a school-wide composting initiative that empowers students, strengthens community partnerships and reduces waste.
5 Secrets to Social Media with John Champe DECA
John Champe DECA’s social media presence is skyrocketing, with Instagram engagement up over 1200%. Here’s how consistent, high-quality, student-focused content keeps our rapidly growing chapter connected and thriving.
Advisor Best Practice Spotlight of the Week: Olivia Fluharty
West Brunswick High School DECA advisor Olivia Fluharty blended student involvement, community engagement and brand partnership through their successful DECA x Chick-fil-A Bingo Night.
Fueling the Future: Why Fundraising Powers Every Successful Chapter
When led by DECA members, fundraisers show the importance of taking initiative to help out the community. Discover how Lightridge DECA made an impact on their community with their "Pink Out" fundraiser this fall.
The Gift That Keeps on Giving: Making the Most Out of Scholarship Season
This holiday season, remember that some of the most meaningful gifts come from effort, passion, and perseverance. By dedicating time to scholarship applications, you’re not just applying for financial aid; you’re investing in your dreams.
Watch Now: The 2020-2021 Collegiate DECA #NextLevel Membership Video
This is not just another year. This is the year we push our limits and set our sights higher than ever before. No matter what your dreams and goals for the future, propel yourself to the #NextLevel with Collegiate DECA.
Leadership Team Building Ideas
While social distancing, it can be difficult to connect with the members of your leadership team. However, it is vital to continue being productive and connected. We want all teams to have an extra strong start to the next school year in order to make up for lost activities and events. Below are my top five tips to keep the DECA spirit alive with your leadership team!
Using Zoom to Unlock New Learning Opportunities
It’s safe to say that 2020 has thrown just about everyone for a loop. Like many educators, Sharon Cutler, a 15-year DECA chapter advisor and teacher at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, has been looking for unique ways to engage her students through distance learning.
Partner with Purpose: Developing Partnerships for a Stronger DECA
For your DECA chapter or association to thrive, it is valuable to find individuals or organizations that can help you achieve your mission and goals. Forming partnerships allows multiple groups to receive benefits while also contributing to the greater good of their respective markets.
Tell Your DECA Story in 4 Easy Steps
The next opportunity to advocate for DECA is here as February is Career and Technical Education Month®! During this month we will raise awareness and celebrate the value of Career Technical Education (CTE) and the accomplishments of DECA members around the globe!
CTE Lingo: Key Terms to Know
It's Career and Technical Education Month® and you may suddenly find your social media feed full of new terms and acronyms. Don't get overwhelmed! Here are the top terms you need to know to be part of the #CTEMonth conversation and help advocate for DECA and career and technical education.
Fundraise Your Way to ICDC
Fundraising often gets a bad reputation for being too hard or not producing the desired outcome. However, by following the six keys to fundraising, you will soon find yourself with money to fund your chapter’s trip to ICDC.
6 Ways to Celebrate #CTEMonth
How can you celebrate CTE Month and show support for DECA and your school’s program? These are the six best ways you can help celebrate and advocate for support of CTE.
DECA Direct Magazine: Here We Go
The Back to School issue features tips on selecting your competitive event, a guide to setting goals for the upcoming year and everything you need to get started this year in DECA!
#Goals for Your Year
Before jumping into your goals for the year, it’s important to start with that passion. Why is DECA important? What can DECA do for the students in your school and your community? In a few sentences, explain your vision for your DECA chapter. If it was everything that it could be, what would it be? Use this vision as a guide as you are setting goals for your chapter.
Your Chapter's Best Year Yet
No matter your goals for the year, membership is the foundation of every DECA chapter. It’s important to plan ahead to reach potential new members and find innovative ways to engage your current members as well. With more than 10 years of DECA experience under their belts, Collegiate DECA Executive Officers Lindsay Joyner and Max May share their secrets to successfully growing chapter membership.
How to Incorporate an Entrepreneurial Attitude into Your DECA Chapter
You may be asking, “How does entrepreneurship apply to my chapter?” Well, the mission of DECA is to prepare emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. So why not get a head start? The same basic principles that apply to starting a business also apply to your chapter.
