When you think of FFA, like most people, farming is probably the first thing that comes to mind. While FFA used to stand for Future Farmers of America, the organizations name changed in 1988 to The National FFA Organization, to reflect the science, business, and technology of agriculture. There is so much more to FFA than farming and ranching. It focuses on developing the skills and leadership of today’s youth. FFA is a very diverse organization. From the Leadership Development Events in the fall to Career Development Events in the spring to Public Speaking and exhibiting livestock year round. Students have the opportunity to participate in all of these things.
It is natural for everyone to want to excel in some way or another. In the ag department at Sweetwater High School, we believe in the idea that "everyone can be good at something." Because of the diversity of the program, the challenge is simply to find the avenue to success best suited for each student. It takes a lot of hard work to be successful in competition. However the results of hard work are very rewarding. As a member of the Sweetwater FFA chapter, students learn new skills that benefit them later in life. Whether it is leadership skills, such as public speaking or chapter conducting, or decision-making skills required in livestock, meats or other judging contests, participants are given the opportunity to learn, lead, and hopefully become successful.
What's Happening in FFA?
For a full listing of FFA events for this year, go to the
FFA calendar.