Students from three Round Rock ISD high schools were named finalists at the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) International Career Development Conference.

Nearly 50 students from Cedar Ridge, McNeil, Round Rock and Westwood high schools competed at the international event, held in Anaheim, CA in April. Along with the individual student winners, “The Rock Shop” from Round Rock High School was recognized for earning DECA’s gold certification.

“DECA is an outstanding organization that allows students to build confidence while preparing to be future business leaders,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steve Flores said. “I am proud of these students who represented Round Rock ISD on an international stage and showcased what it means to come from a world class school district.”

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe, according to the organization. During the competitions, students complete business management and administration, finance and hospitality and tourism projects and presentations to be judged against students worldwide.

The following students were named finalists at the competition:

  • James Joh and Ian Chiu, finalist in Franchise Business Plan, Westwood,
  • Kelsey Singer, finalist in Personal Finance Literacy, Cedar Ridge,
  • Cindy Xu and Oren Shed, finalist in testing score, Round Rock,
  • Khushi Jogani, Vasu Jogani and Jay Madalia, finalist in virtual business challenge — hotel, Round Rock and
  • Krishna Ganesh, finalist in Principles of Marketing, Round Rock.