La Porte High School's DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) chapter will advance to state competition in Corpus Christi March 1-3 after earning top honors at the district contest.

Four students competed in the District DECA Career Development Conference at the Westin Galleria Jan. 26 and 27. Freshmen Kyle Jobe and Josue Rodriguez competed in the Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision Making event and advanced to state.

Nimra Haroon, senior, competed in the Fashion Merchandising Promotional Plan event and also advanced to state. Freshman Kristin Parker competed in the Principles of Marketing event.

All students also take an online exam prior to every competition.

DECA is an international organization that prepares emerging entrepreneurs and leaders interested in business management and administration, fashion and sports and entertainment marketing, hospitality and tourism, and finance careers. Students become members of their local chapter and are able to compete in several competitions throughout the yea.

"These students have worked diligently to prepare for this competition and are excited to represent La Porte ISD well," said Nekeba George, marketing instructor at La Porte High School, who advises the students and helped prepare them for competition. "I am proud of their hard work and accomplishments."