by KENDALL FARRAR, Bok North FFA Reporter
As the year came to a close, Bok North FFA experienced a month filled with achievement, leadership, service, and holiday tradition. December showcased the dedication of our members both inside and outside the classroom, proving that our chapter continues to grow and thrive.
Competitive Success
Vegetable & Citrus CDEs
Two Bok North FFA teams proudly represented our chapter at the State Vegetable and Citrus Identification Career Development Events.
The Vegetable Team — LaRae Lawson, Isabell McKeon, Grace Sullins, and Kevin McKeon — earned 17th place overall in the state.
The Citrus Team — LaRae Lawson, Isabell McKeon, Grace Sullins, and Rory Brewer — placed 10th in the state, ranking among the top teams in Florida.
Their dedication and preparation are a testament to the strength of our program.
CDE Preliminaries
Following the state contests, members returned to campus to compete in district preliminaries. Bok North placed 6th overall in Milk Quality & Products and 4th overall in Livestock Evaluation, qualifying six members for the State CDE Competition in February. Preparations are already underway as teams continue to sharpen their skills.
Leadership Development
Middle School Leadership Conference
Fourteen Bok North FFA members expanded their leadership skills at the Middle School Leadership Conference, which opened with a Disney-themed session. Members from across Florida participated in workshops on Florida agriculture, animal science, agricultural advocacy, and leadership, led by the Florida FFA State Officer Team. The conference concluded with a dance social and closing session, leaving students inspired and energized.
State Officer Visit
Bok North FFA was excited to welcome Clayton Keene, Area 4 State FFA Vice President, to campus. Members enjoyed hearing his perspectives on our land lab, chapter events, and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. Clayton also facilitated interactive workshops on “Finding Your Why” and developing impactful Community Service Projects, motivating members to think deeper about their goals and service.
Community Service & Outreach
Bethlehem Village
Our chapter was honored to participate in Bethlehem Village at First Baptist Church of Lake Wales. Members provided goats, calves, chickens, and even a donkey to create an immersive nativity experience. Dressed as shepherds, students guided visitors through the village, helping to bring the story of Christmas to life.
Wreaths Across America
This month, Bok North FFA partnered with the Pasco County CattleWomen to sponsor and place approximately 500 wreaths during the Wreaths Across America ceremony in Bushnell. Members honored fallen heroes by placing wreaths on veterans’ headstones as a sign of respect and gratitude.
A retired Navy nurse also shared the meaning behind the coins often placed on veterans’ headstones, explaining how each coin represents a special message of remembrance and honor — a powerful lesson our members will carry with them.
Season of Giving
For the fourth consecutive year, Bok North FFA members spread holiday cheer by providing gifts and handwritten cards to residents at local assisted living facilities. This annual tradition allows our chapter to give back to the community and brighten the season for those who may otherwise feel forgotten during the holidays.
Pollinator Garden Project
In support of agricultural education and environmental stewardship, members successfully raised over 120 caterpillars into butterflies and released them into our pollinator garden. This hands-on project emphasized the importance of pollinators in agriculture while providing students with real-world experience in animal care, life cycles, and conservation.
Preparing for the Polk County Youth Fair
Members have been working diligently to prepare their livestock projects for the upcoming Polk County Youth Fair. Students have written buyer letters inviting local businesses and community members to support their projects at the auction.
The chapter is also seeking donations of individually wrapped snacks and 2-liter sodas for the Lake Wales FFA Alumni food tent, which provides free meals and snacks for local FFA members during the fair.
For more information or to donate, please contact jennifer.williams@lwcharterschools.com.
Chapter Spirit
December Chapter Meeting
Holiday cheer filled our December chapter meeting as members built gingerbread houses, listened to Christmas music, and learned about upcoming opportunities. It was a fun and festive way to end the semester together.
Looking Ahead
December reflected the heart of Bok North FFA — dedication, leadership, service, and unity. With a full schedule of competitions and activities ahead, our members are eager to continue building on this momentum in the new year.
