The Nest, the school-based enterprise at Pea Ridge High School, was one of only five schools in Arkansas recently awarded Gold Certification for the 2024-2025 school year. This prestigious recognition means The Nest will be honored during DECA’s International Career Development Conference this April in Orlando, Florida.
DECA’s School-Based Enterprise Certification Program recognizes outstanding achievement by student-run businesses and encourages them to strive for excellence and growth. SBEs can earn certification at three levels: bronze, silver, or gold. To apply, SBEs must submit extensive documentation demonstrating how they meet various marketing and retail standards. A review committee then evaluates the submissions to determine the certification level achieved.
A school-based enterprise (SBE) is a student-run business that provides goods and services to meet market needs. These hands-on learning experiences integrate national curriculum standards in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. All students and faculty involved work on a volunteer basis—talk about going above and beyond! Many community members wonder why the school store has limited hours, and the answer is simple: a teacher must be willing to volunteer their time. We are incredibly grateful for Ms. Weast and her dedication to growing and maintaining The Nest, which requires countless unpaid hours to prepare and run the store.
Students participate in running The Nest at various levels through Marketing courses, but the most involved students are juniors and seniors enrolled in a work-based internship. This opportunity allows them to develop valuable workplace readiness skills while preparing for college and careers.
On Colors Day, The Nest officially opened its brand-new location in the high school arena—and it looks incredible! This labor of love is designed to provide a more convenient shopping experience for both students and community members. The team hopes to extend store hours during the school day to allow students occasional opportunities to shop.
All involved should be commended for their hard work! Pea Ridge High School DECA member Zaylee Warden played a significant role in launching the new store, while Sam Eiermann was instrumental in preparing the documentation required for SBE certification. Their success was made possible with the support and guidance of DECA chapter advisor Ms. Madison Weast.
We are proud of The Nest, its student leaders, and Ms. Weast for their achievements with DECA and for successfully launching a brand-new storefront.
#CTEMonth #BlackhawkCTE #PRDECA