I wanted to share with everyone what amazing students we have here at GT high school (which I am sure you all realize that already).

As a teacher, FFA advisor, and community member of Graettinger, I could not be more proud of all the hard work and dedication the FFA members have put into making this program a success, through community service, mentoring, ag awareness, contests, awards, and character.

Last weekend, I took four state degree applications and four proficiency applications to review day. Dakota, Brandon, Phil, and Dillon will all be receiving their FFA State Degrees in April (which is a huge honor); and Kayla and Cody's proficiency applications moved on to the state level.

On February 11th, I had the opportunity to take 17 of our members to subdistrict contests in Emmetsburg. Our members represented the communities, our school, and FFA chapter very well... not only in competition but also through their character and behavior. I don't even know how many compliments I had from judges and other advisors about our students. We had 4 out of 6 contests move on to district level! Conduct of Meetings Team (Quinn, Trent, Mitch, Callie, Hailley, Nikki, and Jake) receiving 1st gold; Dakota in Job Interview, receiving 1st gold, Dillon in Public Speaking, receiving first gold; and Amanda in Creed Speaking, receiving 3rd gold. The Parli Pro team (Kayla, Zach, Nate, Cody, and Matt) are alternates, receiving a silver rating; and Phil also represented the chapter and school very well in Ag Broadcasting, receiving a bronze.

Also, if you guys have any words of encouragement for Kayla; she will be running for district office and has her interview on Monday.

There is no greater gift than to see the faces of our students when they accomplish something they worked so hard to achieve. I would like to thank everyone that is a part of their lives, and have helped make them the amazing kids that they have become! I am truly honored to be their agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.