Merced High FFA students showcase projects and awards at board meeting

Students from the Merced FFA chapter presented projects, teams and awards at the Merced Union High School District board meeting, and trustees praised the chapter’s growth and community connections.

Abby Miller, chapter president, and other student officers described an active year: eight students entered the project competition (many earning gold awards and one merit award), two students advanced to regional public-speaking contests, and teams competed in welding, cotton judging, dairy products and live livestock. The chapter took 24 members to state convention in Ontario this year (up from a typical 16). Production teams now test milk quality and cheese identification, and a cotton judging CDE was added; the chapter also piloted a dog‑washing business as a PBL (project-based learning) enterprise.

Students thanked the district for a workforce grant that bought shop machinery, which they said expanded hands‑on opportunities in welding and other CTE instruction. They also recognized teacher Miss Jester, who received a state Star Staff Award and advanced to national recognition.

Trustees and attendees applauded students’ presentations and encouraged continued participation. Principal Knott and others noted the chapter’s positive impact on campus culture and student engagement.

What happens next: Trustees noted the positive outcomes and will continue to highlight student leadership and CTE pathway successes in future meetings.