A Message From Ms. Curran: “Congratulations to Newfield DECA Students who competed in the Virtual DECA Competition that was held from November 30th through December 4th. Once again, Newfield’s students did very well. Zarif Rezwan placed in the Principles of Finance Category; Abu Kalam placed in the Principles of Hospitality category; Dora John placed in the Principles of Business Administration category; Khadija Siddiqui placed in the Hotel and Lodging category; and Ilsaa Siddiqui placed in the Retail Merchandising category. Congratulations to all who won. Thank you to all who competed.”

We discussed DECA this year with Ms. Curran, its advisor, in December. DECA is also known as the Distributive Education Clubs of America, facilitating a wide range of competitions for students. It is best known around Newfield for its school store, which has unfortunately been shut down due to COVID-19 regulations.

How do you feel about the five placings of Newfield students? "I am very proud of the students who placed in the Virtual DECA competition. During this difficult time, students stepped up to the plate and continued to meet their goals."

What difficulties did you face with the online DECA testing? Were any issues resolved quickly? "The biggest difficulty with online testing wasn't being able to log into the site to get the testing tickets for the students. Some advisers couldn't get in, but I was one of the lucky ones where my password worked. If students logged into the site on a day their test wasn't given, then a new password had to be generated. My biggest obstacle was remembering how to get back into the site to get a new testing ticket and password for the student."

What is the next step for those who placed? "States/Internationals? For students who won, States will be fully virtual with online tests and recorded role-plays. Nationals are still being determined."

What are some projects that DECA is planning on doing this year (with the school store being shut down)? "I am hoping that the school store will be able to open in the spring. I would also like to participate in Habitat for Humanity. However, everything is on hold as you know. DECA usually piggybacks with other clubs so we can wait and see what other clubs are doing and help them because we share the same students."

What is your favorite thing about being the DECA advisor? "My favorite thing about being a DECA advisor is meeting new members and being inspired by their great ideas and being a part of their high-school journey."

We are glad to report that Ms. Curran's wish of re-opening her store came true! Additionally, Zarif Rezwan placed in the State Competitions. The Newfield DECA store is back in business. Menus are available on the boards outside the store.