Krystal Wright

Having middle school FFA has always been a program goal since I got to Benton 15 years ago. The major problem that hindered this goal was that in order to be an FFA member, students must take an agricultural education class. The agriculture program offers an exploratory to 7th-grade students but did not have a good way to have 8th-grade students take an agriculture class. This year, we were able to work out the schedule to offer 8th-grade students agricultural education during their bobcat time. This school year, our middle school program has 40 8th- grade students and 25 7th-grade students for a total of 65 in the program. 

The middle school FFA members hold monthly meetings where they participate in a variety of activities. So far this year, members have painted pumpkins, decorated cookies, and elected officers. In December they participated in the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign and have plans to hold some other activities and service projects include to make tie blankets for the Linus Project, hold a food drive for members of our community, host a sheep show, May Day baskets for teachers and adopt-a-highway to name a few. Several members will be competing in contests this spring as well. 

The MS FFA program helps members develop public speaking skills, conduct and participate in meetings, manage financial matters, strengthen problem-solving abilities and serve our community. The best part about students being involved in FFA is they can participate in what they are interested in and find their niche all while developing skills needed to prepare them for success now and throughout their lives.