The Bowling Green High School DECA Program earned a Compass Award for the fourth quarter of 2023 from Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague.
The quarterly recognition program commends organizations, programs, and individuals across the state who are working to guide Ohioans toward financial literacy and empowerment.
Patrick McCauley, public affairs liaison for the treasurer’s office, presented the award on Wednesday to the Bowling Green High School DECA program led by Cara Maxey. BGHS DECA is a satellite program of Penta Career Center offered to 11th and 12th grade students. Peyton Green, who was one of the students who helped facilitate the program, was present for the award.
In 2023, participating seniors at the high school facilitated a money management class for students. The seniors visited the middle school’s Money Management class and provided small group instruction on topics such as saving, interest and investments. The project made a measurable impact on students, as data collected from final exam scores reflected an overall improvement of 8% from the prior year. Through the project, seniors also shared they gained useful knowledge about money management.
DECA provides students with experiential learning and work experiences related to a variety of careers in business management and administration, finance, hospitality and tourism, and project management. Through the program, students learn to plan, implement, and manage projects from the early stages to completion.
“We’re proud to recognize our newest Compass Award honorees for their ongoing efforts to advance financial literacy education and empowerment in our state,” said Treasurer Sprague. “It’s critical that we equip students with the necessary tools and ‘know-how’ to make smart financial decisions throughout their lives. Thanks to the hard work of the Bowling Green High School DECA program, many more young Ohioans are on the path to financial success.”
