Middleburgh Central School District (MCS) students are getting a unique blend of hands-on learning and leadership development through a focus on agricultural studies. These opportunities come through both classroom instruction and participation in the National FFA Organization (FFA, formally Future Farmers of America).
In addition to traditional offerings in math, science, English, social studies and technology, MCS students can explore over a dozen classes offered through the Agriculture Department. Agriculture classes are offered beginning in grade 7 and increase in complexity through grade 12. For example, upper class members can study veterinary science. Carmen Fagnani is an agricultural teacher and FFA advisor.
“The FFA provides students with incredible opportunities to develop leadership skills, explore career paths in agriculture, and engage in hands-on learning experiences,” she said. “Through its programs, students gain practical knowledge in science, business, and technology, while also building confidence and making connections that last a lifetime. It’s an organization that empowers young people to grow and succeed both personally and professionally.”
Logan R. is a sophomore who has earned 2.5 credits by completing classes like Real Life Agriculture and Small Animal Care. She is currently enrolled in Equine Science and serves as co-vice president of the FFA. Logan has big future goals.
“Participating in FFA has impacted my knowledge and career goals by making me want a farm when I’m older,” she said.
Freshman Aiden S. is currently taking the Wildlife and Fisheries class at MCS. He’s also the former president of the Jr. FFA club. Through FFA he has participated in many dairy competitions.
“Since sixth grade, I’ve participated in competitions for dairy judging, livestock judging, Livestock Skillathon, and Avion Bowl,” he said. “FFA has given me the opportunity to meet new people and make many connections across New York State as well as the U.S.” Aiden added.
FFA members frequently travel to local agricultural businesses to observe real-world practices and innovations. Recently, several students ventured even farther, attending the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jessica Schoenecker is a teacher at MCS and is the parent of a student in National FFA. She chaperoned the trip, and says they made some stops along the way.
“We toured the retired Lackawanna Coal Mine museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania. A tour guide took students back in time to the life of an Industrial Revolution coal miner,” she recounted. “We also stopped at Hershey Park to learn about Hershey’s use of dairy products. Next, students toured the state-of-the-art facility at the State of Ohio Agriculture Department. Lastly, students toured Purdue University and met FFA alumni.”
Those experiences were just precursors to the main event, the convention. Sophomore Kalynn L. was inspired.
“One of the most memorable moments was the first session we went to,” Kalynn said. “We got to listen to Kevin Wanzer. He is a motivational speaker and he spoke about kindness and acceptance.”
Kaylynn is the MCS FFA club treasurer. She says through the club she has gained public speaking experience, and she has enjoyed meeting new people from all over the country.
Aiden says he was also impacted by Wanzer’s speech and he cited Temple Grandin’s speech on animal behavior as a high point. He says he is counting the days until next year’s convention.
“FFA National Convention is a great time for students to meet fellow FFA members from all over the US,” noted Aiden. “I had the opportunity to learn about careers in agriculture, meet with industry leaders, and listen to keynote speakers present topics in regards to FFA and agriculture.”
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