BY TAMMY A. GANTT
The North Marion High School Future Farmers of America chapter was recognized as one of the nation’s finest FFA chapters at the Florida FFA State Convention held in June and later recognized by Marion County Public Schools’ Career and Technical Education program when classes returned in September. The chapter was judged nationally and received a Three Star Chapter status which is the highest ranking a chapter can earn and considered the gold standard.
To be considered for a national star chapter honor, chapters must first receive a gold rating by their state FFA associations. Those chapters go on to compete for the designations that range from one star up to three stars. The National FFA organization recognizes outstanding FFA chapters from throughout the country that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization including innovative activities in each of the three divisions: growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture.
Part of the North Marion FFA program includes the first high school equine studies program of its kind with a four-year Thoroughbred industry curriculum. The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ & Owners’ Association is an industry advisor for the program. To learn more about the program, listen/view The Florida Horse Podcast episode featuring graduate Fianna Roberts-Squier to learn about its impact on the Florida Thoroughbred industry.
