Hamtramck student, a Yemeni American junior, seeks permission to compete at DECA nationals in Orlando

At a Hamtramck Board of Education meeting, advisor Tim Kloss and student Sarah Alward asked the board for permission to send five Hamtramck High School students to the DECA national conference in Orlando. Alward, a junior and a state-level winner, said she qualified as a national finalist and will represent both Hamtramck High School and the state of Michigan.

Alward described how participating in DECA, a student organization focused on marketing, finance, hospitality and entrepreneurship, broadened her confidence and leadership skills. "When you invest in a girl, especially a girl from a background where opportunity is limited, you're not just helping one person, you're creating a ripple effect," Alward said, speaking about her Yemeni American background and the cultural barriers some girls face.

Tim Kloss said the travel request covers five students and noted Sarah is one of the top state winners.

Board discussion recorded no formal vote on the trip request during the public portion of the record. No official funding decision or motion to approve travel was recorded in the transcript segment discussing the DECA presentation.

Community and cultural context

Alward asked the district to continue making accommodations to support cultural needs for girls from conservative backgrounds so they can participate fully. She said after the state's competition, several underclassmen reached out to say Alward—s success inspired them to consider joining DECA.

Next steps

The transcript shows the presentation concluded with board members wishing the students good luck; the record does not include a board motion or vote on travel authorization or funding during the public segment captured in the transcript.