FFA students are “skipping” school this spring, all in the name of spring contests. The spring contests are split into two different categories: CDEs and LDEs, giving members the opportunity to learn about not only different careers, but build life, and leadership skills.
Through these contests, FFA members develop critical thinking skills and effective decision-making skills, while also connecting and working as a team with other students. Contests begin in middle school in states with junior high programs and run through twelfth grade — and thanks to social media, we’re enjoying seeing what’s going on with FFA contest TikTok FFA trends!
But how do FFA members and advisors feel about skipping school?
Contest season means late afternoon and evening practices and early mornings with your chapter and advisor. But how does everyone feel about that? Well, see for yourself!
@laurel_ffa_chapter #FFA #SLLC ♬ Pretty Boy Swag – Soulja Boy
But, really, how do they feel about it?
@jayhighffa shake it for the… FFA competition #ffa #ornamentalhorticulture #flaffa #contest #competition #dance ♬ SHAKE IT FOR ME – lux
Contests help build teamwork and decision-making skills
Sometimes, contests don’t go as planned. Especially when it comes to judging contests, placings can be a little more subjective.
@whitecityffa The debreif after judging is interesting sometimes😅 #ffa #futurefarmersofamerica #ag #ffaadvisors #livestockjudging ♬ original sound – Ollie
Members learn how to perform under stress
Although everyone deals with stress a little differently, members have the opportunity to conquer their stress and perform in their practiced contests.
@jayhighffa FFA competition stereotypes!! #ffa #competition #stereotypes #stress #eater #nervous #florida #flaffa ♬ Che La Luna – Louis Prima with Sam Butera & The Witnesses
Contests can push everyone out of their comfort zones
Yes, that might even include your advisors. FFA contests provide an opportunity to explore other areas of agriculture and to learn new skills.
@the.ms.peck I have never even ridden a horse before #MyDolceMoment #agteacher #ffa #horse #horsejudging #minnesota #firstyearteacher #judging #teacher ♬ original sound – T
