A group of talented students from Tolland High School has earned recognition for their remarkable achievements in entrepreneurship. The school's DECA team, guided by business teacher Lynne Bridge, is set to represent their community at Disney World in an upcoming competition. These academic trailblazers have demonstrated exceptional skill in entrepreneurial contests, capturing the attention of educators and parents alike. Their journey began with a recent triumph at Quinnipiac’s Junior Achievement Tournament of Champions, where they claimed the top prize.
The team's success extends beyond the accolades, as it includes substantial opportunities for their future. Senior student Ahshvi Shah, along with teammates Wilsey Zahner and Cecilia Ruiz-Giro, not only won the championship but also secured a prestigious four-year scholarship worth $92,000. This achievement initially came as a surprise even to Zahner’s mother, Gina, who thought the amount might be exaggerated. However, the reality of such a generous reward underscores the value placed on academic excellence. Parents like Dipen Shah express pride in seeing academic accomplishments celebrated alongside athletic achievements, emphasizing the importance of recognizing intellectual pursuits early in life.
Inspired by their success, these young scholars hope to inspire others to pursue similar ambitions. Ruiz-Giro advises aspiring students to take initiative and explore new opportunities without fear of failure, while Shah encourages creativity and self-belief. As they prepare to head to Florida, this team exemplifies how academic endeavors can lead to meaningful rewards. Their story serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and innovation in education can pave the way for bright futures, motivating countless other students to embrace academics with passion and determination.