Gateway STEM High School’s Student-Run Business Earns National Gold Certification from DECA

Students at Gateway STEM High School are receiving national recognition for their entrepreneurial skills.

JagTown, the school’s student-run school-based enterprise (SBE), has earned Gold Certification from DECA for the 2025–2026 school year. The program will be recognized during DECA’s International Career Development Conference, taking place April 25–28, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

JagTown is operated by junior and senior students enrolled in Gateway STEM’s Entrepreneurship Program and guided by DECA advisor Ryan Moore. Through the enterprise, students gain hands-on experience managing a real business within the school.

School-based enterprises provide students with practical learning opportunities by allowing them to develop, market, and manage products or services while applying classroom knowledge in real-world settings. These programs help students build valuable skills in marketing, finance, management, and hospitality, preparing them for both college and future careers.

Gateway STEM’s enterprise has been operating for three years, giving students the opportunity to develop business plans, manage operations, and practice essential workplace readiness skills.

DECA’s School-based Enterprise Certification Program recognizes outstanding achievement among student-run businesses. Enterprises can earn bronze, silver, or gold certification, with the gold level representing the highest standard of excellence. To qualify, students must submit extensive documentation demonstrating how their business meets national marketing and retail standards.

SLPS congratulates the Gateway STEM students and their advisor for this outstanding accomplishment and for representing the district with excellence.