by LANDEN ATKINS, Edward W. Bok Academy North FFA Public Relations Chairperson
At Lake Wales High School, the FFA chapter is more than a student organization—it’s a thriving program that blends agricultural education with leadership training, career preparation, and community service. Under the guidance of advisor Jessica Strom, the chapter is building opportunities that reach beyond the classroom, helping students grow into leaders who make a lasting impact.
Mentorship and Leadership Development
One of the chapter’s strongest traditions is its mentorship program, where current officers guide younger members who are interested in becoming leaders. This peer-to-peer approach allows students to experience leadership firsthand while building confidence and responsibility.
Leadership also grows through service-learning events. Members regularly participate in projects like the Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo, where they assist adaptive riders and connect with the community. “It pushes us out of the classroom,” says Chapter President Kayleigh Douge, “and shows us what leadership looks like in action.”
Learning by Doing
Lake Wales FFA members stay busy with Career and Leadership Development Events (CDEs and LDEs), from livestock judging and dairy evaluation to ag sales, citrus, horse evaluation, and meat science. These contests sharpen problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills that carry beyond high school.
Members also pursue Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), where they manage livestock, run agribusiness projects, or explore ag mechanics. This year, the chapter is adding aquaculture tanks to give students an even broader look at agriculture.
For many, these opportunities turn into defining moments. Vice President Sarah McNutt recalls the pride of advancing to the state level with her demonstration contest: “It gave me confidence to speak in front of adults and judges, something I never imagined I could do before FFA.”
Treasurer Isabella Silva highlights the livestock program: “Winning first place with my market hog in middle school showed me that all the long hours in the barn pay off—and that lesson has carried into high school.”
Building Agricultural Literacy
The chapter sees agricultural education as a responsibility that extends beyond its own members. Through the Great American Teach-In, students bring animals, books, and interactive lessons to elementary schools, sparking curiosity in the next generation.
Alongside outreach, members actively address common myths in agriculture.
- Eggshell color doesn’t affect nutrition.
- Non-GMO isn’t always better.
- Farmers care deeply about sustainability.
- FFA is not a “cult” but a leadership organization.
These efforts ensure the chapter is not just competing and learning but also advocating for agriculture in the community.
Preparing Students for the Future
While agriculture is the foundation, the lessons of Lake Wales FFA extend much further. Members learn public speaking, time management, teamwork, and responsibility—all essential tools for life after high school.
“FFA taught me how to walk into a room with confidence and speak to anyone,” says Kayleigh. For Bella, the biggest lesson has been time management: “Balancing school, sports, and FFA forced me to get organized. It’s prepared me for my future.”
Community at the Core
From setting up at the Hollie Brewer Rodeo to showcasing projects at county fairs, the chapter ensures agriculture stays visible in Lake Wales. Each event strengthens the bond between students, the community, and the land.
“FFA connects us to the real world,” Sarah explains. “It’s about understanding where our food comes from and learning how we all play a part.”
Looking Forward
With growing membership, new agricultural projects, and a continued emphasis on leadership and service, Lake Wales High School FFA is positioned for an exciting future.
The chapter is living proof of the FFA motto: Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.
Lake Wales FFA isn’t just preparing students for careers in agriculture—it’s preparing them for life.
