FFA students from Cumberland County High School and Stone Memorial High School partnering to host a Fall Farm Day Saturday to educate the community about local agriculture.
Cumberland County High School agriculture teacher Jason Atkinson said the joint effort began several years ago to promote the industry through a seamless collaboration between the two schools.
“I think it’s important for our kids and their kids to know that we’re all on the same team. We might compete against each other in contests and stuff, but eventually we’re all about agriculture ultimately,” Atkinson said. “And so that’s kind of what we wanted to do is just to make sure that they know that everybody works together because we come together in the winter as well, we do an auction and chili supper together.”
Atkinson said the event includes a truck, tractor, and car show held at Stone Memorial to provide a space for local residents to display restored automobiles and equipment. Atkinson said the programs also co-host a spring truck and tractor pull to fund their activities throughout the year. The students work together on travel and the selection of student officers for both chapters.
“I think FFA is probably the premier leadership development club in any school,” Atkinson said. “We’re there as advisors to help guide, but they put in the time, they do the work, they make the decisions, they’ve got to be there and you can really tell how that impacts them as they grow into adulthood.”
Atkinson said the organization focuses on developing skills that translate to various career paths beyond farming. Students are placed in charge of specific events during the farm day to manage personnel and supplies.
“Community service is something that we want you to do it’s giving back to your community because they give to you,” Atkinson said. “And so this is one way that we kind of emphasize, hey, this is a community event that we’re giving back to the community.”
Atkinson said the addition of the vehicle show was intended to enhance the environment and attract more visitors who might not otherwise engage with agricultural education. The event is designed to be an affordable, family-friendly atmosphere for young children.
“It’s a something that we want to do for the community so that they can enjoy being out as a family and learn a little bit about agriculture,” Atkinson said.
The students will walk attendees through various educational exhibits during the Saturday event.