Greetings and salutations to all – this is our first month back in a new school year and the Agricultural Education program is off to a great start. Our Agricultural Exploration class (8th grade) has looked at the vastness of agriculture surrounding each of us every day. We learned that while 1 out of 5 jobs in agriculture are farmers / ranchers; 4 out of 5 jobs are in agriculture involve sales and service, marketing, mechanics, research, education, etc. They will be exploring a unit on careers soon.

The Agriscience class (Freshmen) is currently working on memorizing the FFA Creed to earn their Greenhand Degree. They are also deep into the study of entomology (insects) and the effects of bugs on the world around us – both beneficial and harmful.

The Agricultural Welding class has passed their safety tests. They will be welding with stick and wire welders in the flat, horizontal, vertical, and overhead positions.

In Agricultural Fabrication, the students have passed the safety tests, updated their record books from the summer projects, and are now involved in their individual projects in the shop. Some are repairing equipment while others are creating plans for new projects.

All-in-all; off to a great start. The Altoona-Midway FFA has started the school year off to a fast start. Officers were elected for the 2012-13 year. “Dillon Walker was elected unanimously to lead our FFA Chapter this year,” said Advisor Alan Weiser. Weiser continued, “Dillon has a team concept that we need within our chapter this year to actively involve every member.”

Other new officers are Tyce Marple, Vice-President; Cadin Secrest, Secretary; Ivy Johnson, Treasurer; Lindsay Walker, Reporter; and Ryan Simpson, Sentinel. These six officers will be assisted by Dakota Carter, the Student Council representative. Dues have also been set at $15 for the year, the same as last year. These are payable to Ivy Johnson, Treasurer. FFA is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through Agricultural Education.