Established in 1975, the black and white logo of Butler Technology and Career Development Schools conveys its commitment to education. About the emblem: it features a crest with gears, an atomic model, and an open book, all surrounded by laurel leaves and stars.

NW DECA Gold Recertified School-Based Enterprise

By AJ Huff

Update

Two smiling students stand behind a DECA School-Based Enterprise snack cart filled with treats. One holds up a smartphone displaying a screen. The cart has an "OPEN" sign, mugs, and donation box, with posters on the blue and yellow wall behind them.The Butler Tech/Northwest High School DECA chapter has done it again! The Knight Spirit Shop has earned Gold Recertified School-Based Enterprise status for the 2025–2026 school year — a distinction awarded to only 989 enterprises worldwide.

For six years, this student-run enterprise has operated as a true learning laboratory — blending rigorous academics with real-world business experience in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.A young person in a gray hoodie stands indoors, proudly holding two DECA School-Based Enterprise awards, including Gold Recertified honors, in front of a Butler Tech banner and glass door with a "Knights" logo.

This year’s certification reflects the outstanding work of Jade Stargell, Calcha Lomb,e and Cameron Hall, alongside their dedicated advisor, Tracy Turney-Smith. Their leadership, documentation, and operational excellence demonstrate exactly what career technical education is designed to do: prepare students for college and careers.

From managing inventory and finances to delivering customer service and strategic marketing, these students aren’t just learning business — they’re running one.

We are proud to see their continued excellence recognized on an international stage at DECA’s International Career Development Conference in Atlanta this spring.

Left Photo: Jade Stargell, DECA President & Calcha Lombe

Right Photo: Cameron Hall