Future Farmers of America Shine at Warren County School Board Meeting

It was a proud night for agricultural education in Warren County. Students from the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapters took center stage at the February 19 School Board work session. The students and their advisors shared the many ways FFA shapes young leaders and makes a difference in the community.

Dr. Charles Costner introduced the students, setting the stage for an inspiring presentation. “In 1928, a group of young farmers founded what was called the Future Farmers of America,” he explained. “Since then, it has grown into the National FFA Organization, helping students develop leadership skills, career opportunities, and a deep understanding of agricultural education.”

Dr. Charles Costner introduces Future Farmers of America students from Warren County Middle School, Skyline Middle School, Warren County High School, and Skyline High School.

The enthusiasm in the room was clear as students from Warren County Middle School, Skyline Middle School, Warren County High School, and Skyline High School took turns presenting their chapters’ accomplishments and plans for National FFA Week.

Growing Leaders from the Ground Up

Harlie Brooks, a seventh grader and president of the Warren County Middle School FFA, along with advisor Lynne Phillips, spoke with confidence about the program’s growth and impact.

“We’ve expanded agriculture inside and outside the classroom,” she said, highlighting projects like a thriving vegetable garden, hatching baby chicks, and caring for six classroom rabbits, including Hazel, a Flemish giant rabbit adopted last year.

Harlie Brooks, a seventh grader and president of the Warren County Middle School FFA.

Brooks also described how FFA is making a difference beyond agriculture. “I launched the Smart Start tutoring program last August to support sixth graders in core subjects,” she said. “We also hosted makers’ workshops like succulent planting and wreath-making to foster creativity and hands-on learning.”

The middle school FFA chapter has been active in leadership conferences and national competitions, sending five students to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis last year.

Skyline Middle School’s FFA chapter has also been expanding its efforts. Colby Settle, a member of the Skyline Middle School Chapter, along with advisor Allison Deavers, shared how they’ve focused on increasing community service. “Our John Deere tractor-themed hay bale at the school caught a lot of attention,” she said. “And over the holidays, we rang the bell for the Salvation Army, entered a float in the Christmas parade, and helped bring holiday tidings to families in need.”

Colby Settle is a member of the Skyline Middle School FFA Chapter.

FFA’s Longstanding Legacy in Warren County

Grace Ross and advisor Lee Meadows represented Warren County High School FFA Chapter. They shared the rich history of the county’s FFA program. “Our chapter was originally established around 1929 but ended in 1972,” she explained. “With the help of Ms. Jane Baker and the Warren County Farm Bureau, FFA was brought back in 2016. Since then, it has only grown stronger.”

Ross spoke about the chapter’s commitment to giving back. “This year, we made potholders and collected hygiene products for CCAP,” she said. “We’re in the process of making up to 400 potholders through a national Living to Serve grant.”

Grace Ross and advisor Lee Meadows represented Warren County High School FFA Chapter.

She also credited local businesses and farms for supporting students’ hands-on learning. “We want to thank Warren County Veterinary Clinic, Virginia Livestock LLC, and French Brothers Dairy Farm for welcoming us and sharing their knowledge.”

Family, Community, and the Future of Agriculture

Bobby Ford, a student from Skyline High School and the 2024-2025 Skyline FFA Secretary and advisor Grack Bucklen shared how FFA is more than just an extracurricular activity—it’s a way of life. “Being an FFA member means so much to me because, without FFA and agricultural classes, I wouldn’t have had these opportunities,” he said.

Bobby Ford, a student from Skyline High School, and advisor Grace Bucklen.

He emphasized the chapter’s focus on community and family involvement. “We created an alumni and supporters group similar to a booster club, opened our quarterly chapter dinners to parents, and hosted a family potluck for the holidays,” Ford said. “We’ve increased family engagement by over 20% this year.”

To celebrate National FFA Week, Skyline’s chapter packed the schedule with appreciation gifts for staff, a “Drive Your Tractor or Ride Your Horse to School” day, workshops led by Virginia State FFA officers, and spirit dress-up days for the entire school.

A Bright Future for Warren County’s Young Farmers

As the students wrapped up their presentation, it was clear how much FFA meant to them and their schools.

“Our FFA chapters and ag programs mean so much to many students,” Ford said. “We appreciate you allowing us to share our positive impact on students in Warren County Public Schools.”

The School Board members expressed their appreciation, applauding the students for their leadership, dedication, and contributions to the community.

With National FFA Week in full swing, Warren County’s young agricultural leaders are honoring the organization’s proud traditions and cultivating a strong future for agriculture, leadership, and service.

Watch as WCPS FFA members showcase their achievements to the school board.

Skyline High Students Celebrate National FFA Week with Tractor Parade