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Roughly a dozen local middle and high school educators participated in marketing classes at the Mike Cottrell College of Business Feb. 18. Sitting in on classes led by Dr. Mohan Menon and Mary Norman, attendees were invited to ask questions of students, participate in discussions and learn about current marketing trends.

"The concept is continuous learning — lifelong learning — to keep up with what is going on," Menon, a professor of marketing and management, said. “In my interactions with Forsyth County teachers over the years, I found that they are very busy and thus may not have the time to update their knowledge and skills. By attending our classes, they get to know the latest ideas, concepts, and examples in Marketing.”

The day began with a principles of marketing class, led by Norman, senior lecturer of marketing. She described the experience as a great opportunity for the teachers to gain insights into the types of marketing content that is being covered, in addition to providing further insights into various learning techniques and application of core marketing concepts.

"This collaboration truly is beneficial to students overall, as it can reconfirm that the high school curriculum is relevant and aligned to what students will be encountering at the collegiate level.  It really is a great bridge," she said. "I find that the DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) students come in better prepared, as they have been exposed to the content and concepts in meaningful and engaging ways. They are generally more excited and enthusiastic."

is an organization that helps students develop business skills and prepare for their careers while offering opportunities to travel to educational conferences and events. It also helps students network with business professionals and participate in competitions.

"I feel it is important for middle school or high school teachers to visit colleges and have discussion with college professors. Whether we (high school teachers) are teaching marketing to students entering the workforce or students continuing their education at a college level, it allows us to get feedback and affirmation that what you are providing is properly preparing students for their future," David Rooney, Forsyth Central High School DECA advisor, said.

Carol Dixon, DeSana Middle School marketing teacher and DECA advisor, said she looked forward to observing and collaborating with other teachers especially at the collegiate level.

"It is important to see what is happening in marketing classes at all levels so we can help prepare students for the future," she said. "It’s important for middle and high school teachers to engage with college professors about subject matters because we all need to stay current on our subject and the best way to share ideas and information is through collaboration."

Visitors also attended Menon's consumer behavior class.

Student Brooks Jennings was pleasantly surprised to see Rooney, his former DECA advisor, with the group. Jennings is currently in his junior year as he pursues a degree in finance. He credited Rooney with teaching him the skills needed in the future that would enhance his degree.

"Finance is a passion for me, but I need marketing skills to market myself and the work I will do," the Cumming, Georgia resident said.

Elizabeth Dunn said it was a nice surprise to have her former teachers, Rooney and Jessica Smith, in her class and appreciated how they'd take the experience back to their high school students.

"I think it's important for high school teachers to view college courses because it gives them an actual idea of what they need to prepare students for," she said. "Taking the high school classes definitely helped with the introductory marketing classes. In high school you get the base line. Then when you get your degree, you delve deeper into it." 

Dunn is in her junior year pursuing a degree in digital marketing. She resides in Cumming, Georgia.