The Business Professionals of America chapter at Mariner Middle School continues to dominate state competition and will send 12 students to the April 26-30 national competition in Anaheim, California.
Mariner won the Middle Level Professional Cup in February at the BPA State Leadership Conference in Wilmington, where around 260 kids from 20 middle schools competed in 15 competitions.
The honor is granted to each division’s chapter with the highest level of participation in Special Recognition and Torch Awards.
Daniel Shockley, BPA adviser and teacher at Mariner, remarked that the chapter is in its sixth year and that many of his students are also participating in the Honor Society, AVID, and community service initiatives.
Students reported enjoying the in-person nature of this year’s conference. During their leisure hours and lunch, they planned their events.
Shockley stated that Mariner continues to dominate the Administrative Support Team Event, landing in the top two for the past six years. The team comprised of students Elena Booth, Macy Davis, Kate Hill, and Emily Wells earned first place.
Shockley stated that Mariner dominated the Business Basics competition by placing four of the five state finalists. Caleb Marcus took first place, followed by Aubrie Sylvester, Hannah Wells, and Addy Zimmerman in that order.
Addy Zimmerman placed first and Kate Dowd ranked second in Computer Literacy.
Ariel King earned second and Blair Chubb ranked third in Graphic Design. Natalie Longo and Kate Dowd, two of the five finalists in the Word Processing competition, finished second and third, respectively, for Mariner.
This year’s Delaware pin, which will be worn by state finalists at nationals, was created by Wells. Caleb stated that he is very excited to trade pins with pupils from throughout the United States.
Natalie and Hannah’s birthdays will also be celebrated in Anaheim, according to Shockley. The itinerary includes visits to Santa Monica, Knotts Berry Farm, Disneyland, and Universal. In addition, BPA National will organize a social event for all finalists.
Shockley stated that some parents will be able to go as chaperones and share the experience with their children.
The Mariner BPA team is now seeking sponsors and contributors to assist students in defraying the fees associated with attending the national competition. The cost is around $1,500 per pupil, according to Shockley. Contributions can be mailed to Mariner Middle School, 16391 Harbeson Road, Milton, DE 19968 attn: Mariner BPA.