Future Farmers of America is a club that promotes and supports agricultural education among students. Students learn leadership skills, personal growth, and career success through learning about agriculture in FFA. Hughson High School is well known for its involvement in FFA, and there are many opportunities to be a part of it. There are several options for classes students can choose to learn more about agriculture, and there are many activities and events that encourage student involvement. 

Kelly Larson, an agriculture teacher, is very involved with the FFA program. Larson said, “The main purpose of FFA is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.” She said that the opportunities available to the students is the best part of FFA. There are many conferences, SAE projects, and education about leadership skills that are given to students who wish to participate. She also added, “This year I look forward to watching our FFA members succeed through their projects in AG, the classroom, and by attending leadership events.” Larson mentioned that Hughson High’s FFA program is recognized nationally. Students have been announced at national champions, and now students are being recruited to colleges out of state because of the achievements they made in FFA.

Kate Cooper, a junior in high school, is a part of FFA. She said, “Personally, my favorite part about being in FFA is the friendships I have made. Throughout the past 3 years, I have been able to attend a variety of FFA events spanning from chapter events in Hughson, to statewide and a national conference.” She looks forward to speaking publicly at competitions where she gets to advocate for agriculture. She has taken part in the FFA creed competition and more public speaking competitions. Kate also looks forward to the different conferences that allow her to meed new people and make connections. She said, “FFA isn’t just about agriculture and animals. FFA is an organization focused on developing the next generation of leaders in America.” Kate joined FFA her freshman year at Hughson High. She wanted to join because of the many opportunities that FFA has to offer. She added, “I have become part of the livestock judging team, attended multiple conferences, raised a market hog, and become part of our chapter and sectional officer teams.”