Program Spotlight: Anthony Wayne-Penta Chapter of FFA

by: Ashlyn Shafer, AWHS Communications Intern

What is FFA?
You’ve probably heard of FFA in connection with the many career technical opportunities at Anthony Wayne High School, but what exactly does FFA stand for, and what does it do? Despite the common misconception, FFA doesn’t actually stand for “Future Farmers of America” anymore. Since 1988, the official name has been the National FFA Organization, reflecting its broader mission to serve students interested in agriculture, business, science, and even trades that support Ohio's number one industry: agriculture.

Anthony Wayne’s FFA Chapter
At Anthony Wayne, our FFA chapter is led by Courtney Bockbrader, a passionate advisor who has guided countless students through both the classroom and the many hands-on experiences that make FFA unique. Under Mrs. Bockbrader’s leadership, this chapter continues to thrive by offering a variety of opportunities for personal growth, community service, and career development.

In the Classroom: Agricultural Education at Anthony Wayne
In the classroom, students have the chance to dive into a variety of subjects that reflect the wide scope of agriculture beyond just farming. The courses offered at Anthony Wayne include:

• Agribusiness: Teaches students how to manage and sell agricultural products, as well as understand the money and business side of farming.

• Veterinary Science: This course teaches students about animal health, care, and medical practices, preparing them for careers in veterinary medicine or animal care.

• AFNR: (Agricultural, Food, and Natural Resources) teaches students about the industries related to agriculture, food production, and the environment, focusing on both practical skills and sustainability.

All of these classes, along with others, are considered intracurricular, meaning they incorporate FFA into daily lessons. This approach creates an engaging and dynamic learning experience, encouraging greater student participation. 

Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement
Beyond the classroom, FFA members at Anthony Wayne are encouraged to get involved with the community through volunteer opportunities that benefit both local organizations and the agriculture industry. These are called Supervised Agricultural Experiences, where students go out and do entrepreneurship placement projects

Competitions: Challenging Students to Excel
FFA is renowned for its competitive events, and Anthony Wayne’s chapter fully embraces these opportunities. Students participate in a variety of local, state, and national competitions designed to challenge their skills and knowledge in agriculture.

These competitions give students the chance to apply what they’ve learned, while also fostering teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Through these events, members often develop lasting friendships and build a strong network of peers who share a passion for agriculture and related fields.

In addition to competitions, students also attend conventions where they are recognized for their hard work. At these events, they have the chance to hear from industry leaders, participate in leadership workshops, and further connect with others in the agriculture community. 

Conclusion: Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Penta-Anthony Wayne FFA chapter offers students more than just agricultural education; it's a chance to grow as a leader, contribute to the community, and explore a wide range of careers in agriculture, business, and science. Whether in the classroom, through volunteer work, or in the thrill of competition, FFA helps students develop skills and experiences that will last a lifetime.