Whitko Community Schools is proud to announce the launch of a new student-run business initiative.
The student-led business is scheduled to begin accepting orders in August 2026, offering a range of customizable items including hats, jackets, polo shirts, logo patches, and more. This hands-on venture will provide students with valuable experience in entrepreneurship, production, marketing, and customer service.
Whitko Community Schools’ core focus is to empower students through authentic, real-world business experiences. By participating in the student-run enterprise, learners will develop essential workplace competencies such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and financial literacy.
The program is designed not only to enhance career readiness but also to create tangible value for the local community by offering high-quality, customized goods produced by Whitko students.
“This is more than just a business—it’s a platform for students to explore their potential, build confidence, and make a lasting impact,” said Whitko Superintendent of Schools Dr. Amy Korus.
Funding for this important initiative was made possible, in part, by a $34,000 grant from the DEKKO Foundation. The funding will be used to purchase commercial-grade embroidery machines, enabling students to design, produce, and sell custom apparel and branded goods.
“This investment from the DEKKO Foundation allows us to bring real-world learning to life for our students,” Korus said. “Through this initiative, students will gain practical skills that extend beyond the classroom while contributing meaningful products and services to our community.”
Whitko Community Schools extends its sincere appreciation to the DEKKO Foundation for its commitment to education and workforce development.
The DEKKO Foundation is a private family foundation based in Kendallville, Indiana. Founded by late businessman Chester E. Dekko, its primary mission is to foster economic freedom through education. In Indiana the Foundation supports projects in DeKalb, LaGrange, Kosciusko, Noble, Steuben and Whitley counties.
The DEKKO Foundation’s core mission and strategy is to invest in the development of children and young people from birth through age 18. The foundation believes that by providing learning environments that support self-sufficiency and skill development, youth can eventually create value for others and achieve economic independence. Its grantmaking supports early childhood learning, middle childhood development, adolescent growth, and youth philanthropy.
For more information about the student-run business or to inquire about placing an order beginning August 2026, contact: Whitko Career Academy, Larwill, 260-327-3677.
