District 228 is proud to announce that Bremen High School and Oak Forest High School have received the distinguished 2025 DECA Gold Certification for their school-based enterprises in both Retail Operations and Food Operations. This prestigious recognition, awarded by the National DECA Organization, places Bremen and Oak Forest among the top-performing schools in Illinois, with only five high schools in the state achieving Gold Certification status.
Bremen High School’s Achievement
Bremen High School’s school store has earned the highest national honor—Gold Certification. Bremen is one of only two high schools in Illinois to receive this certification in both Food Operations and Retail Operations.
This achievement is the result of the dedication and hard work of DECA members:
Nayeli Lozano & Emiliany Rodriguez – Retail Operations
Jordy Martinez & Ian Valadez – Food Operations
These students spent countless hours compiling a detailed report, collecting hundreds of photos, organizing extensive survey data, and submitting their findings to National DECA. As a result of their efforts, Bremen’s DECA chapter now has the opportunity to compete in the School-Based Enterprise event at the National DECA Competition in Disney World from April 25 - April 30, 2025. This marks Bremen’s fifth consecutive year as a Gold Certified School-Based Enterprise.
Oak Forest High School’s Achievement
Oak Forest DECA is celebrating seven years of Gold Certification, with the last five years being double-certification years. Their continued success demonstrates the high level of excellence and commitment among students and faculty.
Students in Oak Forest’s DECA program were required to analyze all aspects of their school-based enterprise and present their findings in a comprehensive 50-page formal report—all while simultaneously operating their businesses.
Oak Forest's Presidential Pillars leading the initiative:
Adri Bille
Evan Gamboa
Ethan Rubio
Kendall Weekley
“Our students not only operate a business but also analyze and evaluate their learning to the extent that they can explain it to others,” said Katie Gomez, Oak Forest DECA advisor. “This honor is a testament to their dedication and innovation.”
Hands-On Learning & Career Preparation
DECA’s school-based enterprises provide students with real-world experience in entrepreneurship, business operations, and community engagement. Through their participation, students have developed key skills in Entrepreneurial Thinking, Financial Literacy, Collaboration & Leadership, and Customer Service Excellence.
“We’ve learned that running a business isn’t just about making money; it’s about solving problems, staying organized, and working as a team,” said DECA President Adri Bille, a student manager of the Busy B’s enterprise. “This experience has prepared us for future careers and given us confidence in our abilities.”
Both Bremen and Oak Forest DECA chapters are actively preparing for State and National Competitions, aiming for continued success in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Additionally, Oak Forest DECA has been recognized as a Kindness Certified School for the fifth consecutive year, a reflection of their dedication to spreading positivity in the school and community.
The achievements of Bremen and Oak Forest DECA chapters are a testament to the commitment, perseverance, and innovative spirit of District 228 students. Their hard work and leadership continue to shape the future of business education and inspire young entrepreneurs.