Skyline FFA Students Promote Agriculture at South River Community Forum

Students from the Skyline High School FFA program attended the South River District community forum at Skyline High School on March 15 to share information about their organization and the role agriculture plays in the community.

Bobby Ford and Adelyn Rinker of the Skyline High School FFA chapter speak about the organization and its agricultural programs during the South River District community forum at Skyline High School on March 15.

Bobby Ford and Adelyn Rinker, members of the Skyline FFA chapter, spoke with residents about the student organization and the opportunities it provides for students interested in agriculture.

FFA, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, is a national student organization that focuses on agricultural education, leadership development and career preparation. The Skyline High School chapter operates as part of the school’s agriculture program, taught by agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Grace Bucklen.

Ford explained that FFA members participate in a variety of competitions and events throughout the year that help them develop knowledge and leadership skills related to agriculture. Activities include livestock judging, public speaking and other competitions held across the state.

Rinker participates in hippology, a competition focused on the study of horses, including anatomy, nutrition, care and judging.

In addition to competitions, the Skyline FFA chapter also hosts community outreach events designed to promote agriculture and teach younger students about farming and food production.

The group is also preparing for an upcoming FFA Steak Dinner fundraiser scheduled for Saturday, April 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. The dinner will include ribeye steak cooked medium, green beans, baked potato, roll, salad, drink and dessert.

Tickets are $30, and attendees may choose to dine in or carry out, but tickets must be purchased in advance. Those interested in attending can contact kmathews@wcps.k12.va.us or call 540-631-0366 for ticket information.

Ford said the organization’s events help promote a better understanding of agriculture within the community while giving students opportunities to develop leadership skills and explore potential careers.

Bobby Ford and Adelyn Rinker of the Skyline High School FFA chapter stand at their display table during the South River District community forum at Skyline High School on March 15, where they shared information about the student agriculture program and upcoming FFA activities.

Both students said their interest in agriculture began in middle school through agriculture classes and supportive teachers who encouraged them to become involved in FFA.

Ford said he hopes to attend college and eventually become an agriculture teacher, while Rinker plans to pursue a degree in animal science and hopes to become a large-animal veterinarian.

Programs like FFA provide students with hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world agricultural practices while encouraging leadership and community involvement.