GBCCA DECA Students Shine at 2026 Texas State Career Development Conference

Two Rockwall High School seniors are headed to the international stage after the Dr. Gene Burton College & Career Academy DECA chapter turned in its strongest state performance in recent years, producing five State Finalists from a field of 7,328 competitors across Texas.

Katelyn B. and Isabelle K., both 12th graders at Rockwall High School, earned top honors in the Marketing Management Team Decision Making event at the 2026 Texas DECA State Career Development Conference and will now represent Texas among 15,000 competitors at the international level. The pair were among 27 GBCCA students who traveled to state, competing against representatives from 298 chapters in the fields of business, marketing, accounting, and entrepreneurship.

Three additional GBCCA students reached the State Finalist round as international alternates. Ethan A., a 12th grader at Rockwall High School, placed in the Principles of Entrepreneurship event. Kelly S., also a 12th grader at RHS, competed in the Marketing Communications Series. Megan S., an 11th grader at Rockwall High School, advanced in the Business Services Marketing Series.

Rockwall-Heath High School also added to the chapter's recognition: Carter B., a 12th grader, received a Texas DECA Scholarship in Marketing, one of the program's notable individual honors.

"I am incredibly proud of our 27 competitors who represented our chapter at State," said advisor Mrs. Dori Brown. "Their commitment to learning and professionalism is truly inspiring. Competing at the State level pushes them beyond their comfort zones, challenges them to think like true business professionals, and strengthens their confidence. The experience motivates them to set higher goals and grow as our leaders."

The 2026 results mark a measurable step up from the prior year. At the 2025 Texas DECA State Career Development Conference, GBCCA sent 21 competitors and produced four State Finalists. This year's chapter grew that roster by six students and added a fifth finalist while securing two international berths.

The GBCCA DECA chapter is led by advisors Dori Brown, Alisha Bridges, and April Deats. The chapter credited local business partners for making the state run possible, thanking Group 1 Ford of Rockwall, Rayburn Electric Cooperative, Alliance Bank, and Lacy Deckard with Ebby Halliday for their support of competition efforts and student opportunities.