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Students Shine on the International Stage

Posted On Thursday May 21, 2026
DECA 1st Place
First Place Winners - Sinclair Secondary School

DDSB Students Shine on the International Stage at DECA ICDC 2026

Atlanta, GA - Students from the Durham District School Board (DDSB) made an unforgettable impact at the DECA International Career Development Conference and Competition (ICDC) in Atlanta, Ga., proudly representing their schools, communities, and Ontario on the international stage.

This year, students from Pineridge Secondary School, Pickering High School, Donald A. Wilson Secondary School, Sinclair Secondary School, Anderson Collegiate Vocational Institute and Brooklin High School travelled to Atlanta as part of the prestigious competition, joining more than 26,600 participants from around the world. 

The DDSB’s 66 outstanding student delegates emerged as leaders within Ontario’s 980-member delegation and demonstrated excellence, professionalism, and school spirit throughout the conference.

Students represented their chapters in voting for new DECA Inc. executives and competed with determination and grace, earning an incredible 21 top 10 finishes against some of the world’s top business students. 

A standout moment came from Sinclair SS, whose student competitors earned a first-place DECA “Glass” trophy, one of the highest honours in DECA. Brooklin High School students also earned a second place “Glass” trophy, further cementing Durham’s reputation for excellence on the global stage.

Beyond competitive success, DDSB students stood out for their remarkable team spirit and unwavering support for one another. Their positivity, encouragement, and energy were noticed throughout the conference, leading to multiple interviews and inspiring students from other schools during competitions, networking events, and even dinners.

ICDC offered far more than competition alone. Students participated in Leadership Academies designed to strengthen international networks, develop chapter management skills and bring innovative training ideas back to their school chapters. Delegates embraced every opportunity, balancing late nights and early mornings while fully immersing themselves in the experience. 

Outside of the conference, students explored Atlanta through a variety of cultural and educational experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

For many students, ICDC 2026 was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that fostered leadership, confidence, global connections, and school pride, made possible thanks to the passion, guidance, and commitment of their dedicated staff.