Three DECA students at Redmond High School (RHS) are applying the skills they’ve learned in class to the real world.

In October 2010, seniors Dana Klemmedson and Will Yoo and junior Luke Hatakeda began Shoe Prints, a printing company that provides services for the school as well as the general public. Shoe Prints is operated by the three students, who have received a crash course in not just general business operations, but in the printing business as well.

They have had to learn how to operate different printers, which types of paper works best for different projects and other skills.

“It took a long time to figure out how to run (the printers),” Hatakeda said.

Shoe Prints’ products include posters, banners, plaques, window decals, bumper stickers and personalized water bottles. Prices, depending on the project, range from $3 to $45.

Most of the work they have done so far has been RHS related for the school’s athletics and other programs. The trio designs their products, but if customers bring in pre-designed work, they will print it as well.

In addition to the technical challenges, the trio has had a difficult time getting their name out to compete against established companies such as FedEx (formerly FedEx Kinko’s).

Despite these challenges, they have been looking at the bright side of the experience.

“Obviously it’s going to help us in the future,” Yoo said, referring to the entrepreneurial and problem skills they have gained.

He added that working together has also built a stronger bond and camaraderie among the trio.

Klemmedson said they work mostly during class, but bigger projects sometimes spill over to after school, which makes it difficult sometimes because they are not available as often as other companies.

The money from Shoe Prints will go into DECA’s general fund and pay for conferences, leadership academies and other club activities.

For more information, call (425) 986-1826 or email shoeprints@lwsd.org.