At last week’s Board of Trustees meeting, Snyder High School reminded the community that FFA is much more than showing animals. While that tradition remains meaningful, the program highlighted two equally important experiences that shape students in powerful ways. Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs) help students explore future careers, grow as leaders, and build lifelong skills. The spotlight also celebrated the variety of opportunities now offered through FFA at both Snyder High School and Snyder Junior High.
The Snyder FFA chapter continues to make a strong impact, offering students experiences that reach far beyond the classroom. FFA has long been one of the nation’s most influential student organizations, helping young people develop confidence, character, and valuable skills. That tradition is thriving across Snyder ISD as more students discover the full scope of agricultural education and leadership training.
Founded in 1928 with only 33 students from 18 states, the National FFA Organization has grown to more than one million members across 9,407 chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This growth reflects FFA’s adaptability and its commitment to serving students from every background. Over the years, the organization has marked important milestones that highlight its inclusive culture, including welcoming female members in 1969 and adopting its current name in 1988 to reflect the wide range of careers tied to modern agriculture.
Students in Snyder take part in both CDEs and LDEs. CDEs help students apply classroom learning to real world situations in areas such as agronomy, livestock evaluation, and floriculture. These events deepen critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork.
LDEs focus on communication and leadership. Through public speaking, parliamentary procedure, and team based activities, students strengthen their ability to lead, collaborate, and express ideas with confidence. These are skills that support every future path, agricultural or otherwise.
FFA’s educational model is intentionally broad. Students step into officer roles, serve on committees, explore technical skills in agriculture and business, and develop personal qualities such as responsibility, resilience, and time management. These abilities prepare them for success long after graduation.
The FFA motto, Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve, reflects the heart of the program. Members not only compete in events but also participate in community projects that build character and strengthen the communities they call home.
Membership across Snyder ISD continues to grow. The Snyder FFA chapter currently includes 143 members. With the expansion of agriculture classes to the junior high level, even more students are discovering their interests and building foundational skills earlier than ever before. The continued success of Snyder FFA speaks to the dedication of its members, advisors, and supporters. As participation expands, so do the opportunities for students to learn, lead, and make a positive impact in Snyder and beyond.
Snyder ISD looks forward to celebrating the achievements of its FFA students and supporting the program’s continued growth.