by KENDALL FARRAR, Bok North FFA Reporter
November was a month filled with pride, achievement, and meaningful experiences for Bok North FFA. Our members stepped up as leaders, competitors, and agricultural advocates — reminding us why we are so grateful for this chapter and the opportunities it provides.
Industry-Ready: AEST Certification Success
We are thrilled to celebrate a major accomplishment for our Agriculture Program: Sixteen Bok North FFA students successfully earned their Agriculture Systems AEST Associate Certification after completing our first-ever certification bootcamp.
Agriculture industry professionals develop this certification to ensure students graduate with knowledge and skills that employers actively look for — from animal and plant systems to food science and facility safety. These students have demonstrated that they are workforce-ready and equipped for bright futures in Florida’s agricultural industry.
Learning Through Exploration
Our Agriculture Foundations classes traveled to the UF Citrus Research Center, where students explored the real-world science behind Florida citrus production. They learned how researchers are fighting citrus diseases, examined insects that impact citrus groves, and discovered how science and agriculture work hand-in-hand to protect a vital state industry.
Show Ring Success
Historian Lane Walker proudly represented Bok North FFA at the Greater Jacksonville Fair. His hard work with his Red Brangus cattle paid off in a big way, earning multiple champion titles across both the youth and open shows, including Reserve Champion — Red Brangus Heifer, Grand Champion — Red Brangus Bull, and Reserve & Grand Champion — Red Brangus Bull. The dedication, early mornings, and passion behind these achievements continue to set a high bar for our livestock exhibitors.
Friendsgiving Retreat
Our officer team closed out the season of gratitude with a Friendsgiving weekend — camping under the stars, cooking together, and enjoying time outdoors with fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The weekend strengthened friendships and leadership skills in a fun and memorable way. A huge thank-you to Mr. and Mrs. Dasher for making this possible!
Farm & Agribusiness Competition
Four of our officers applied their knowledge of farm financial management at the state Farm and Agribusiness Contest, earning a strong finish and gaining valuable insight into real-world agricultural business decision-making. Their dedication to learning does not go unnoticed!
Sharing Agriculture With the Community
During the Great American Teach-In, members traveled to Garden Grove Elementary to teach young students about agriculture — not just by talking, but by bringing the barn to them! Children enjoyed meeting goats, rabbits, chickens, Jilly the pig, and Maggie the Brangus heifer. Inspiring curiosity and excitement about agriculture in future generations is one of our favorite ways to give back.
Sub-District Competition Results
Our students sparkled at our Sub-District competition, earning top placements in multiple speaking events and ceremonies. Isabell McKeon, LaRae Lawson, and Lane Walker placed first in the Prepared, Extemporaneous, and Creed Speaking events. Our Parliamentary Procedure team, consisting of Josie Allen, Jackson Dasher, Steven Chen, Boston Hernandez, Landen Atkins, and Annalise Espinal, placed third within this tough category. Isabell McKeon, LaRae Lawson, Grace Sullins, Aria Patterson, Kaelynn Lopez, Kendall Farrar, and Mahleya Mitchell took first place in the Opening/Closing Ceremony competition. Our first-place teams will go on to represent Bok North FFA at the District Contest in January. Their confidence and professionalism on stage reflect both preparation and passion. We are incredibly proud of how they represented Bok North FFA.
Career Development Continues
Members have also been working hard in Career Development Events. After taking preliminary exams at our local partner church location, Bok North FFA qualified to compete at the state level in Citrus Identification, Vegetable Identification, Livestock Evaluation, and Food Science. Citrus Identification team members include Isabell McKeon, Grace Sullins, LaRe Lawson, and Rory Brewer. Vegetable Identification team members include Isabell McKeon, Kevin McKeon, Grace Sullins, and LaRae Lawson. Livestock Evaluation team members include Aria Patterson, Kendall Farrar, LaRae Lawson, and Landen Atkins. Food Science team members include Aria Patterson, Isabell McKeon, LaRae Lawson, and Jahdiel Gonzalez. We look forward to seeing these teams continue to grow as they prepare for the next level of competition.
Service Through Partnership
This month, students partnered with the Circle of Friends Ministry at Rockin’ W Ranch. Officers were paired with buddies to help them learn horsemanship and build confidence around horses. It was a heartfelt experience that reminded us how agriculture can connect and empower people of all abilities. We were also excited to renew our partnership with Keep Polk County Beautiful and continue our beautification efforts on our adopted roadway.
Looking Ahead
November brought so many victories — in leadership, service, academics, and the show ring. Now, we look ahead with excitement toward more Career Development Events, Wreaths Across America, Polk County Youth Fair, our Hands to Home Service Learning Project, Florida State Fair, Florida Strawberry Festival, and Central Florida Youth in Ag Showcase and Sale.
With every new opportunity, Bok North FFA members continue to demonstrate dedication, compassion, and pride in agriculture. We can’t wait to see what December brings.
See you next month — and as always, Go Bok North! 💙💛