The FFA Chapter made a grand appearance at the 2023 National Eastern Regional Big E Leadership Development Event (LDE) and Career Development Events (CDE) in Springfield, Massachusetts. ACHS students participated in the Farm Business Management, Creed Speaking, and Safe Tractor/Equipment Operating events. In order to attend the National competitions, students had to qualify at the state level event in the spring. Eighteen states were eligible to send students to each event.
Clay Hamilton, Bruce Jones, Tyler Martin, and Carter Swanberg represented Appomattox and Virginia in the Farm Business Management CDE. During the contest, participants made advanced calculations regarding an agribusiness’ cash flow statement, income statements, futures market investments, and enterprise budgets. Individually, Hamilton placed 8th, Swanberg placed 7th, Martin placed 5th, and Jones was the 4th high individual. The team was crowned the first place champion. The Farm Business Management team was coached by FFA Advisor Ed McCann.
Jay Harris competed in the National Safe Tractor/Equipment Operating Finals. During the event, Harris was required to complete a series of obstacle courses. He successfully maneuvered a four-wheel wagon and a manure spreader through the courses. In addition, he operated a skid-steer loader and a tractor with a front-end loader. Harris was the third best equipment operator in the nation. Harris had much help in preparing for the event from Concord Power Equipment, our local Bobcat equipment dealer, and numerous farmers from the Evergreen community.
Savannah Jones participated in the Creed Speaking LDE. As the state runner-up at the Virginia FFA Convention, Jones qualified to represent Virginia at the Big E. Jones recited the 5 paragraphs of the FFA Creed from memory to a panel of judges. She also fielded a series of questions about the FFA creed. Jones placed 7th in the event. Jones was coached by FFA Advisor Elizabeth Duncan.
These students were prepared by being active in the Agricultural Education program in Appomattox County Public Schools. Agricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber, and natural resources systems.
