Timothy Christian High School offers students two excellence-driven programs where real-world experience meets classroom instruction: DECA and Virtual Enterprises International (VEI). Through these nationally recognized business initiatives, students are building confidence, character, and leadership—skills that last far beyond high school.

VEI: Simulating Real-World Business, Cultivating Courageous Leaders

Virtual Enterprises International is more than just a class—it is an immersive, student-led simulation of running a real business. Timothy’s VEI program, known as REMedy, is part of a global network of over 3,000 firms worldwide, giving students the unique opportunity to manage their own virtual company. Classrooms transform into bustling workplaces, with students serving in various departments like finance, marketing, and management—all under the leadership of chief officers.

Throughout the academic year, students develop comprehensive business plans, make daily business decisions, and manage their company’s operations from startup to annual report. “What you see happening each day in a business is what’s happening in the VEI classroom day in and day out,” explains Kendra Lee, head of the Business Department.

This year, Timothy’s VEI students made history by advancing to the Top 8 in the prestigious National Business Plan Competition held in New York City on April 7–8. The national competition began with 44 teams from across the country. Timothy’s business plan team—comprised of Jennifer Carreon, Ethan Becvar, Chloe Wetterquist, Natalia Dziura, Mitchell Keith, and Caroline Ewald—navigated through multiple rounds of rigorous evaluation, including a 20-page written plan, a 10-minute presentation, a Q&A session, and a live auditorium pitch.

This achievement marked the highest placement in school history, surpassing the previous best of 13th place in 2023. “For the first time, we made it to the Top 8 round,” says Lee, noting the students’ hard work and dedication.

In addition to the Business Plan team, Timothy qualified for the first time in the Marketing Plan and Finance competitions. The Marketing Team of Audrey Carlton, Jacob Knox, Sarah Loerop, and Norah Rudman placed 4th at regionals, while the Finance Team of Peter Buikema, Charlie Crichton, Gavin Ozinga, and Richard Parsons took 1st place regionally. Both teams competed nationally against 36 other teams, gaining valuable experience that set a solid foundation for future success.

Beyond competition, VEI students showcased their entrepreneurial spirit at the national trade show, networking with peers and industry professionals. This immersive experience equips students with critical skills in leadership, problem-solving, collaboration, and public speaking—preparing them to confidently lead in college, careers, and beyond.

“Our goal isn’t just to teach business skills—it’s to develop courageous leaders who are equipped to serve with integrity and faith in every area of their lives.”

DECA: Shaping Confident Communicators and Strategic Thinkers

DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) has been part of Timothy’s business program since 2015, introduced by Kendra Lee, who witnessed its transformative impact firsthand at her previous school. DECA operates as an after-school club where students meet weekly to develop skills in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through leadership conferences, seminars, and competitive events.

This year, DECA participation nearly doubled with 67 members—54 competed at regionals, 13 advanced to state, and two represented Timothy at the national competition.

At the largest Illinois DECA State Career Development Conference ever held—with nearly 2,000 students competing in Rosemont from March 6–8—thirteen Timothy students stood out. Among them, Josiah Bhatia and Jennifer Carreon qualified for the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, April 26–30, where they competed in the Entrepreneurship Team Decision Making event—a challenging contest that included a 100-question test and a role-play scenario.

DECA’s impact goes beyond competitions. The club plans and executes community service projects, including raising $1,200 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and organizing a turkey drive that collected 300 turkeys for Lampstand Ministry. Students took ownership by coordinating with organizations, managing logistics, advertising, and fundraising.

According to Lee, “DECA boosts students’ self-esteem and helps them mature as they discover and develop their God-given talents. It’s more than business lessons—it’s about preparing courageous leaders.”

Beyond the Classroom: Fueling Innovation, Initiative, and Influence

Senior Jennifer Carreon, involved in both VEI and DECA, appreciates the practical experience and public speaking skills gained. “VEI requires a great deal of collaboration, which can be challenging, but it teaches me to work with different personalities and appreciate teamwork,” she says.

Chloe Wetterquist, who developed an early interest in business inspired by watching Shark Tank with her dad, agrees: “VEI helped me understand the importance of multitasking and sharpened my leadership skills.”

Josiah Bhatia echoes the teamwork sentiment: “Participating in DECA made me realize how crucial it is to understand and respect different viewpoints to succeed.”

At Timothy Christian Schools, business education goes far beyond textbooks. Through VEI and DECA, students engage in real-world simulations and competitions that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership—all within a Biblical worldview. These programs embody the school’s mission to develop courageous leaders who innovate, collaborate, and compete at the highest levels.

“Our students aren’t just preparing for college and careers—they step confidently into leadership roles equipped to make a difference in their communities and the marketplace,” says Lee.

With a history of national qualifications, top placements, and growing participation, Timothy’s VEI and DECA programs continue to build business powerhouses ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.

At Timothy Christian Schools, we don’t just prepare students for the future—we empower them to be courageous leaders who innovate, collaborate, and compete at the highest level.