The start of the school year is a time of energy and fresh beginnings. You can build on your hard work from last year or start something new. If this is your first year in FFA, welcome! You are in for a great adventure, one where you will explore your interests in agriculture, develop career and leadership skills, and meet lifelong friends. You have to put in the effort, though, to make the most of your FFA experience. As you get back into the swing of school, consider this advice from four National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA.
1. Build on your POA.
Your chapter’s Program of Activities (POA) is the road map that will guide what your FFA chapter will do this year and why. Nancy Sell, a teacher ambassador from Georgia, says her officers develop each year’s POA with the “keep, cull, or keep and tweak” method. They evaluate each activity from the previous year and decide whether they should do it again or make changes. Now that school has started, it’s time to work the plan and have fun! Remember to take mental notes for next year’s POA planning.
2. Get excited.
If you are interested in an FFA event, ask if you can help with planning or show initiative by helping set up or clean up after the event. Also, remember to take photos, especially if you are the chapter reporter. In any case, show your excitement. “Excitement brings increased attendance, increased attendance builds stronger bonds, and strong bonds strengthen the overall makeup of the chapter,” says Allison Heald, a teacher ambassador from Alabama.
3. Gain support from your community.
Raise awareness among your community — parents, alumni, businesses, school administration, etc. — on what you’re doing this year, says J.R. Pierce, a teacher ambassador from Montana. Express your appreciation for them. They’ll be your biggest supporters.
4. Be willing to try new things.
Stepping outside your comfort zone can be scary. There is a possibility of failure. But it’s the only way you’ll grow, Pierce adds. Try a new contest or experiment in your supervised agricultural experience this year. Your future self will thank you.
5. Expect to have a good year.
“If you go in with a positive mind, you will get positive results,” says Millie Chism McKinney, a teacher ambassador from Mississippi. Ready to build or refresh your POA? Find a variety of helpful resources at ffa.box.com/v/poaresources.
