2014-15 Florida FFA Guide

1

PREMIER LEADERSHIP PERSONAL GROWTH CAREER SUCCESS

FFA GUIDE

2 FLORIDA FFA GUIDE

Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.

For years, FFA members have lived by these 12 short words as they’ve experienced our organization and the blue corduroy jacket.

Our motto is the culmination of the FFA experience; a revolution that began over 85 years ago. A revolution that’s more than competitions, trophies and blue jackets. It’s about feeding the world, moving forward, engaging others, and making an impact.

Now it’s time for the next step. Let’s spark change, empower others, aspire greater opportunities and engage in that inspiring task. We are the future of agriculture. Let’s take our experience to the next level and continue the revolution.

Be the revolution.

Florida FFA Guide • 2014-2015Volume 1, Issue 1

The Florida FFA Guide is published annually by Florida FFA Inc. for the exclusive use of its members and teachers/advisors.

Florida FFA Association • 5600 SW 34th Street • Gainesville, Florida 32608(352) 378-0060 • Fax (352) 378-6061www.floridaffa.org

Copyright © 2014 Florida FFA Inc. All rights reserved.

4 Getting Started

11 Membership

14 Quality Chapter Plan and Report

18 Leadership Conferences

25 Career Development Events

34 Award Programs

WHAT’S INSIDE

3

WHAT’S INSIDE

4 About Florida FFA

4 Chapter Requirements

5 Agricultural Education Model

6 Starting an Agricultural Education Program

6 Chartering a FFA Chapter

7 Resources

8 Areas and Districts

9 State FFA Officers

GETTING STARTED

11 Active Membership

11 Submitting Your Membership Roster

12 FFA New Horizons

MEMBERSHIP

14 About the Quality Chapter Plan and Report

14 Submitting Your Chapter’s Plan and Report

15 Standard Areas

16 Chapter Campaigns

QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORT

18 General Policies

18 What to Expect

18 Chaperone Policies

19 Conference Information

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCES

25 General Policies

26 Changes for 2014-15

27 What to Expect

27 Online Testing

27 CDE Participation Fee

28 CDE Overviews

CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENTS

34 Award Submission

34 Award Deadlines

34 Award Application Revision

34 Resources

34 Award Application Reminders

35 Award Overviews

AWARD PROGRAMS

37 Integrity and Honesty Policy

40 Industry Certifications

4 FLORIDA FFA GUIDE

FFA is an integral part of agricultural education by helping make classroom instruction come to life through realistic, hands-on applications. FFA members embrace concepts taught in agricultural classrooms nationwide, build valuable skills through hands-on experiential learning and each year demonstrate their proficiencies in competitions that showcase real-world agricultural skills.

Today’s FFA has evolved in response to expanded opportunities available in agriculture and its needs to hire skilled and competent employees for more than 300 careers. The organization helps students prepare for careers in business, marketing, science, communications, education, horticulture, production, natural resources, forestry and many other diverse fields.

The agricultural education program provides a well-rounded, practical approach to learning through three components: Classroom education, hands-on supervised agricultural career experiences, and FFA, which provides leadership opportunities and tests students’ agricultural skills.

The Florida FFA Association is governed by a board of directors comprised of teachers and students, charters local chapters and provides direction, program materials, and support for local chapters.

Its headquarters are in Gainesville, Florida, and its Leadership Training Center is located in Haines City, Florida.

STATE FFA OFFICERS

FFA members elect their own officers and plan and conduct activities with supervision from their chapter advisors. Eight state officers, all recent high school graduates taking a year off of college, play a key role in sharing FFA and agriculture’s message, traveling more than 300 days of their year of service. State Officers present workshops and deliver presentations focused on the importance of agriculture and leadership development. The president and secretary are elected at-large, and six vice presidents are elected by area.

You can request a state FFA officer to present at your school or participate in your chapter’s activities or banquet. A request form is available online at FloridaFFA.org. State officers are normally limited to two visits per program, per year.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

In accordance with the Florida FFA Constitution, Florida FFA is divided into six regional areas (I-VI). Each area is sub-divided into two districts, and these districts are divided into sub-districts based on membership, participation levels, and geography. Areas, districts, and sub-districts are used for levels of competition for some career development events and officers at the respective levels.

CHAPTER REQUIREMENTS

Bona Fide Chapter RequirementsBona fide FFA Chapters will be eligible to register and participate in all FFA events and activities. Failure to meet these items will prevent the chapter from registering and/or competing in all Career Development Events (CDEs).

■ Submits the Quality Chapter Plan and Report to the state office by October 1 and May 15 of each year and subsequently meets the qualifying points value to be certified as a Quality FFA Chapter.

■ Submits the initial FFA roster and membership dues to the state office by October 1 of each year. Additional membership roster and dues updates may be submitted at any time prior to the spring deadline.

■ Has a charter duly issued by the State FFA Association. ■ Holds chapter meetings an average of once a month or

more. ■ Has chapter officers who know the opening and closing

ceremonies and are familiar with the fundamentals of parliamentary procedure.

■ Has a chapter secretary who prepares and keeps on file the minutes of each chapter meeting.

■ Meets the minimum points requirement of the Quality Chapter Report to seat delegates at the annual State FFA Convention.

ABOUT FLORIDA FFA

5GETTING STARTED

Middle School ChaptersMiddle School FFA Chapter refers to all chapters comprised of only 6th, 7th, and 8th grade members are considered middle school chapters. Some Career Development Events (CDEs) and award programs in Florida are restricted to certain grade levels.

Junior ChaptersJunior Chapter refers to all chapters comprised of ninth grade students only are considered Junior Chapters. There may be two chapters in a high school if the following conditions are met: there are at least sixty FFA members in grades 10 - 12 in the original chapter and two teachers in the department. Ninth grade Junior Chapters compete at the same level as Senior Chapters for recog-nition.

Senior ChaptersSenior Chapter may include members from grades 7 - 12 in a school where a Middle or Junior Chapter does not exist. The words “Senior Chapter” must be used if there is a Junior Chapter in existence in that school.

AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION MODEL

The Agricultural Education Program consists of three elements:

Classroom instruction is the classroom component carried out in the practical application of instruction in a laboratory, shop, greenhouse, school farm, and/or the extended classroom or field trips.

Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) is the individual student application of knowledge and skills acquired through the instructional component put to practical use outside the classroom, under the supervision of the agricultural education teacher.

FFA activities require a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory activities, and the supervised agricultural experience programs. Numerous FFA activities exist which require that students become prepared by study and experience in each of the three phases mentioned.

The close correlation between instruction, activity, and experience makes the program vocational. The FFA, which is an integral part of each of the program elements, has the unique characteristic of binding them together. It often serves as a catalyst, advancing the student more rapidly toward the intended objective.

6 FLORIDA FFA GUIDE

STARTING AN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Most importantly, FFA is a part of the teaching program in agricultural education. The first step is to ensure an agricultural education program exists at your school. FFA activities are an outgrowth of the classroom and supervised independent enterprises and projects. It is impossible to have an FFA chapter without a complete agricultural education program. Below you will find 11 steps to establishing a program in your school.

■ Step 1: Clarify what you want and why you need it. Every community is different. Start by clarifying your goals and assessing your community’s needs.

■ Step 2: Determine what opportunities are available. Each community will be able to offer different educational opportunities based on the region in which they are located. Research to find the number and types of agricultural jobs and post-secondary education opportunities that are available in your area.

■ Step 3: Develop community support. Gather information, facts and statistics that will help you make a case for agricultural education in your community.

■ Step 4: Analyze the local political climate. Find out who the key decision makers are in your community. Then, determine how best to approach them.

■ Step 5: Clarify state-specific processes and procedures. Talk to your state’s agricultural education leaders.

■ Step 6: Develop a task list and timeline. Outline your plan of action. Keep in mind establishing an agricultural education program can be a lengthy process.

■ Step 7: Involve key people. Approach key community leaders and present your case for an agricultural education program.

■ Step 8: Meet with local officials and set up a steering committee. Once you have your key community leaders on board, ask them to become part of your local steering committee.

■ Step 9: Develop a community campaign. Once you have support from community leaders, it is time to get the entire community involved. Develop presentations for your key audiences. Include facts about agricultural education and FFA, and share information you gathered in “Step 2: Determine what opportunities are available.”

■ Step 10: Determine the type of curriculum needed. Once you have completed the surveys and assessments in steps 2 and 3, you will know what types of career opportunities your community has to offer to an agriculture student. Use this knowledge to determine your agricultural education program’s curriculum.

■ Step 11: Present your proposal to the school board. Once you have determined your community’s need for an agricultural education program, gathered a group of supporters, and developed a curriculum, it is time to present your proposal to your local school board for final approval.

CHARTERING A FFA CHAPTER

We’re excited that you are interested in joining thousands of students in Florida wearing the blue corduroy jacket. After you’ve ensured your school’s ability to offer agricultural education courses, chartering an FFA chapter is easy.

1. Chapter Charter ApplicationThe Chapter Charter Application collects all of the information required to get your chapter started. The start a chapter, you are required to have the following at the time of application:

■ At least 10 FFA members ■ List of Agricultural Education Courses taught at school ■ FFA officers ■ An adopted constitution (see step 2) ■ Dues collected

This application is submitted to Florida FFA for processing. Upon receiving your charter, you will be asked to submit the following: the names of your members using the National FFA membership system (Agricultural Career Network) and an electronic Quality Chapter Planning Guide by October 15th, or within 30 days of receiving your charter notice if after October 1.

2. Chapter ConstitutionEach chapter is required to develop and adopt a chapter constitution, which outlines the operations of the FFA chapter. A sample constitution is provided (above) for your convenience. It is imperative that the constitution is adopted by the members of the FFA chapter and is shared with your school administration. You will be required to submit a copy of your chapter’s constitution each year.

3. Collect and Submit DuesWe want you to be able to participate in all of the exciting opportunities available as soon as possible. Submit your chapter charter application, adopted chapter constitution, and dues to Florida FFA for processing. We will be in touch with you as soon as your charter is approved. Additionally, we’ll send you your account information for the online membership system and add your contact information to our mailing lists. We will also recognize your chapter on stage at the state convention immediately following your submission.

7GETTING STARTED

As an FFA advisor, you have access to many resources to help you enhance your teaching. Florida FFA, along with the University of Florida and the Florida Association of Agriculture Educators, offers high-quality, continuous professional development opportunities, resources, workshops and seminars to improve your performance and fulfill your certification requirements for continuing professional development.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Professional developement workshops and other opportunities are available through respected teacher/professional organizations and at select FFA leadership conferences. Workshops, updates, and trainings are typically offered at the following events:

■ FACTE Conference & Trade Show (July) ■ Alumni Development Conference (August ■ Chapter Presidents Conference (September) ■ New Teacher Workshop (September) ■ Chapter Officer Leadership Training (September-October) ■ National FFA Convention & Expo (October-November) ■ FAAE Mid-Winter Conference (January) ■ FFA Awards Judging (May) ■ State FFA Convention & Expo (June-July)

RESOURCES

FLAFFA.ORGOfficial website of the Florida FFA Association

FFA.ORGOfficial website of the National FFA Organization

Visit the following areas on ffa.org to find a plethora of beneficial resources for both your agriculture classes and FFA Chapter:

■ Resources > Advisor/Educator ■ Resources > Chapter ■ Resources > Publications

SHOPFFA.ORG ■ Blue Catalog – FFA Official Dress, FFA Apparel and other

paraphernalia ■ Gold Catalog – Chapter Supplies & FFA Awards

FLORIDAFFAALUMNI.ORGOfficial website of the Florida FFA Alumni Association

FLORIDAFFAFOUNDATION.ORGOfficial website of the Florida FFA Foundation

FLALTC.ORGFlorida FFA Leadership Training Center

FAITC.ORGFlorida Ag in the Classroom

FLORIDAFARMBUREAU.ORGFlorida Farm Bureau Federation

COMMUNITIES.NAAE.ORGCommunities of Practice (professional networking site for agriculture educators)

8 FLORIDA FFA GUIDE

FLORIDA FFA AREAS AND DISTRICTS

AREA 1

District 1EscambiaHolmesOkaloosaSanta RosaWaltonWashington

District 2BayCalhounFranklinGadsdenGulfJacksonLeonLiberty

AREA 2

District 3ColumbiaDixieGilchristHamiltonJefferson LafayetteLevyMadisonSuwannee

District 4AlachuaBakerBradfordClayDuvalNassauPutnamUnion

AREA 3

District 5CitrusHernandoLakeMarion Sumter

District 6FlaglerSeminoleVolusia

AREA 4

District 7OrangeOsceola

District 8Polk

AREA 5

District 9HillsboroughPascoPinellas

District 10CharlotteDeSotoHardeeLeeManateeSarasota

AREA 6

District 11GladesHendryHighlandsIndian RiverMartinOkeechobeePalm BeachSt. Lucie

District 12BrowardMiami-Dade

JacksonSanta Rosa

Escambia

OkaloosaHolmes

Walton WashingtonNassau

Gadsden

Leon MadisonHamilton

Calhoun

Liberty Columbia

DuvalBakerBay Suwannee

TaylorWakulla

LafayetteSt. JohnsGulf

ClayBradford

Union

AlachuaGilchristPutnam

Flagler

LevyMarion

Volusia

LakeCitrus

SumterSeminole

Brevard

OrangeHernando

Pasco

Polk

OsceolaHillsborough

Indian River

Highlands

Manatee Hardee OkeechobeeSt. Lucie

Sarasota DeSotoMartin

GladesCharlotte

Palm BeachHendry

CollierBroward

Dixie

Miami-DadeMonroe

Lee

Pinellas

Franklin

1

2 3

5

4

6

9GETTING STARTED

STATE FFA OFFICERS

BRANDON MCKEESTATE PRESIDENTOKEECHOBEE BRAHMAN FFA

VICTORIA HARRISSTATE SECRETARYSTRAWBERRY CREST FFA

JACOBI BEDENFIELDAREA I STATE VICE PRESIDENTWEST FLORIDA FFA

JANA CARACCIOLLOAREA III STATE VICE PRESIDENTSOUTH LAKE FFA

MYLIE FEASTERAREA V STATE VICE PRESIDENTDURANT FFA

ANGIE PATINOAREA VI STATE VICE PRESIDENTSEBRING FFA

AUSTIN POLKAREA II STATE VICE PRESIDENTTRENTON FFA

REQUEST A VISITYou can request a state FFA officer to present at your school or participate in your chapter’s activities or banquet. A request form is available online at FloridaFFA.org. State officers are normally limited to two visits per program, per year.

State FFA Officers can not serve as judges for any type of competitive event or screening process.

10 FLORIDA FFA GUIDE

MEMBERSHIPFFA members are the heart of the organization; the reason that the FFA was developed more than 85 years ago. FFA members belong to the nation’s largest school youth organization of nearly 600,000 members. Members have an opportunity to create change, motivate peers, and develop leadership potential.

This section of the guide provides a general membership overview and information for submitting your chapter’s membership roster to Florida FFA.

JOIN THE REVOLUTION

11MEMBERSHIP

For a chapter to operate effectively, each member must play an active role. FFA is truly an organization of, by and for its members. Members decide and direct the activities of their own chapter. They hold positions of leadership and conduct all activities. The success or failure of chapter activities and programs rests with the membership.

Each member is charged with the responsibility of upholding the ideals and principles of the organization, as well as participating in all chapter activities.

There are four levels of membership to be achieved in FFA:

ACTIVEActive membership is given to those that are current students that are enrolled in a secondary agricultural education program,

grades 6-12.

HONORARYHonorary membership

is conferred upon those individuals who have rendered outstanding service to FFA and

agricultural education.

COLLEGIATECollegiate members belong to

FFA chapters at two-or four-year postsecondary schools and have an interest in the

future of agriculture.

ALUMNIAlumni membership is open to former active members,

collegiate and honorary members and other FFA

supporters.

ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP

Membership RequirementsTo become an active member and retain membership, a student must:

■ While in school, be enrolled in at least one agricultural education course during the school year and/or follow a planned course of study; either course must include a supervised agricultural experience program, the objective of which is preparation for an agricultural career.

■ Show an interest in the affairs of the organization by attending meetings, striving for degrees of membership, and participating in other organized activities of the chapter.

■ Pay all current state and national dues by the date determined by the chapter.

■ Display conduct consistent with the ideals and purposes of the National FFA Organization.

■ A member may retain active membership until November 30 following his or her fourth national FFA convention after graduation from high school. For more information on active membership, take a look at the National Constitution and Bylaws, Article V, Section B.

DuesAnnual national dues are $7 for active members of which $2 is used to provide a year’s subscription to FFA New Horizons magazine. State dues in Florida are $10 and local chapters may also collect membership dues. All state and national dues are to be sent to the Florida FFA headquarters for processing. The initial deadline for dues is October 1. The final deadline for dues May 15.

COMPLETING YOUR MEMBERSHIP ROSTER

Agricultural Career NetworkThe Agricultural Career Network is a new, nationwide online portal system designed for FFA members and others with a vested interest in agricultural education. Developed by the National FFA Organization, AgCN participants can document achievements, link to educational opportunities, explore careers, become mentors and connect industry leaders with a career-ready workforce.

Membership RosterUsing AgCN, FFA advisors can submit the FFA chapter’s membership roster online. To access AgCN, FFA advisors will need an advisor account created and assigned by Florida FFA. If you do not have an advisor account, please contact Florida FFA.

Additional references and step-by-step instructions on the use of AgCN are available on the Resources page, viewable after login.

MEMBERSHIP

Student AccountsIn addition to submitting your membership roster, AgCN makes sure your students know how much you value their talent and future career success. AgCN provides a map for each student to achieve under your skilled guidance. By adding students to your membership roster, accounts and profiles are created for each of your students through electronic or printed invitations. Students are able to complete their profiles, track FFA activities, and complete FFA award and scholarship applications. A student AgCN account is required for all members.

FFA NEW HORIZONS

FFA New Horizons is the official member magazine for all current and past members of the National FFA Organization. The FFA New Horizons print magazine publishes quarterly and is mailed directly to each of the more than 500,000-plus FFA members across the United States. The publication’s website, ffanewhorizons.org, hosts all content from the print magazine plus additional content, the digital version of the publication, and state-specific content.

A current mailing address must be include for each member in AgCN for members to receive the official magazine.

ALL’S FAIR The Big E

celebrates FFA

members from

18 states

SIX TIPS TO MAKE

YOUR RÉSUMÉ SHINEPLUS: A LEGACY

OF SERVICE Oklahoma member

earns high honors for his

commitment to community

FFAnewhorizons.org

Winter 2013-14

®

LEARN HOW YOU LEARNTen tips to improve your study habits

HUNGER HEROPLUS: BE A

HOME TURFNew Jersey FFA members maintain the school’s golf course

FFAnewhorizons.org SPRING 2014Towing The line

Chantell Matthews

uses her FFA skills

to run her family’s

auto mechanics shop

find ouT

ffAnewhorizons.org fAll 2014

™

The 87Th nATionAl

ffA convenTion

& expo Theme!

13QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORT

QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORTFFA chapters use the Quality Chapter Plan to plan and develop their goals for the year. A well developed serves to define the chapter goals and outlines steps needed to meet those goals. Second, it provides a written guide that provides administrators and advisory committees and others with a calendar of events the chapter will follow in the year ahead. Chapters then submit their accomplishments of the year using the Quality Chapter Report.

This section of the guide provides an overview of the Quality Chapter Plan and Report.

BE THE BEST


The Florida FFA Quality Chapter Plan and Report is designed to promote the consistent delivery of high quality FFA programming throughout the state focused on premier leadership, personal growth, and career success. These standards should improve chapter operations consistent with the traditional Program of Activities (POA) and emphasize student, chapter and community development.

Quality standards have been developed in five areas as a minimum requirement for recognition as a bona fide FFA chapter in the state of Florida. Chapters should plan activities in each of the quality standard areas with an emphasis on measurable results. The FFA mission and strategies should be used as a guide in planning, implementing and assessing accomplishments.

RequirementsThis Quality Chapter Plan and Report will be used, not only as a planning tool, but also as an assessment tool to determine chapter quality status. FFA Chapters that do not meet the minimum adopted standard, 150 points for High School (Senior) Chapters and 125 points for Middle School and Junior Chapters, for a quality chapter would be allowed to continue, but with limited participation, until minimum standards have been met. This ‘probation’ status will be evaluated on an annual basis, and chapters will be prohibited from placing and/or winning any Career Development Event (CDE) or chapter award until the minimum quality standards have been met. In addition, chapters that fall below the minimum quality standards will not be able to seat voting delegates at the annual State FFA Convention.

In order to meet the minimum quality standard each chapter must complete at least one activity or score a minimum of 10 points in each of the standard areas and earn at least 150 (High School) and 125 (Junior/Middle School) points overall. No more than five activities in each area will count towards this total.

Premier Chapter AwardThe Quality Chapter Report will also serve as the Premier Chapter Application. To be considered a premier chapter, Senior chapters are required to obtain the maximum amount of points in each category for a total of 260 points, as well as complete the additional Partnership Standard requirements. Junior and Middle school chapters are required to obtain 230 points and must also complete the Partnership Standard requirements to be considered a Premier Chapter.

COMPLETING THE QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORT

The Quality Chapter Plan and Report is a two-step process: the Quality Chapter Plan and the Quality Chapter Report.

The Quality Chapter Plan opens in September and is due October 1 each year. The plan is simply what your chapter hopes to accomplish this school year. This must be submitted in order for your chapter to be eligible to compete in career developments events.

The Quality Chapter Report opens in April and is due May 15 each year. This submission is used as an accomplishment report to highlight all of the activities your chapter has participated in this year. This submission is use to determine various awards and also to determine if your chapter is eligible to seat delegates.

Both submissions are completed online through FloridaFFA.org. A copy of your plan/report will also be sent to the adminstrator you identify in your submission.

QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORT

OCT

1

MAY

15

150 POINTSHigh School, Senior Chapter

Points Requirement

125 POINTSJunior, Middle School Chapter

Points Requirement

1 ACTIVITY IN EACH AREAEach chapter must complete at least one

activity in each of the standard areas

15QUALITY CHAPTER PLAN AND REPORT

STANDARD AREASLeadership Events50 Points Possible (10 points per activity up to 50 points)Students gain leadership, team building, employability and, interpersonal skills; opportunities for service learning and volunteerism taking full advantage of FFA activities.

■ 2120 Leadership Conference ■ 3600 Leadership Conference ■ Ag on the Hill Day ■ Chapter Officer Leadership Training (COLT) ■ Chapter Presidents Conference (CPC) ■ Chapter Program (State Officers) ■ District Leadership Conference ■ Florida Leadership Adventures (FLA) ■ Florida Outdoor Adventures (FOA) ■ Forestry Camp ■ Middle School Conference (MSC) ■ National FFA Convention ■ State FFA Convention ■ State Leadership Summit (SLS) ■ Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) ■ Local Leadership Event*

*For local leadership events, a conference agenda and curriculum are required to be submitted with this document.

Award Applications50 Points Possible (10 points per award area up to 50 points; points are awarded for categories, not individual applications) The FFA Chapter has a responsibility to provide opportunities and services to its members. The chapter may provide opportunities through a variety of ways; however, chapter activities should be documented through the state application process.

■ Agriscience Fair Application ■ Alumni Essay ■ American FFA Degree Application (HS Only) ■ Chapter Co-Op Application ■ Chapter FFA Degree (report number awarded) ■ Discovery FFA Degree (report number awarded) ■ FAAE/NAAE Teacher Award Application ■ FAAE/NAAE Student Award Application ■ Fresh from Florida Advocacy Award (Food for America)

Application ■ National Chapter Award Application (All Forms) ■ Greenhand FFA Degree (report number awarded) ■ Nutrients for Life Award Application ■ Outstanding Alumni Award Application ■ Proficiency Award Applications ■ Ryan Rimmer Outstanding District Officer Award Application

(HS Only) ■ State FFA Degree Application (HS Only) ■ State Star Discovery Application (MS Only) ■ State Star Greenhand Application (HS Only) ■ State Star Chapter Application (HS Only) ■ State Star Bettery (HS Only)

Career Development Events (CDEs)50 Points Possible (10 points per activity up to 50 points)Students are involved in activities that develop occupational and career skills through a progressive learning environment.

■ Agribusiness Management (HS Only) ■ Agricultural Communications (HS Only) ■ Agricultural Education (HS Only) ■ Agricultural Electrification Essay (MS Only)

■ Agricultural Issues (HS Only) ■ Agricultural Mechanics (HS Only) ■ Agricultural Sales and Service (HS Only) ■ Aquaculture ■ Citrus ■ Creed ■ Dairy Evaluation ■ Environmental Science (HS Only) ■ Extemporaneous Public Speaking ■ Floriculture ■ Food Science and Technology ■ Forestry ■ Horse Evaluation ■ Job Interview (HS Only) ■ Land Evaluation ■ Livestock Evaluation ■ Meats Evaluation ■ Nursery Landscape ■ Opening and Closing Ceremonies (MS Only) ■ Ornamental Horticulture Demonstrations ■ Parliamentary Procedure ■ Poultry Evaluation ■ Prepared Public Speaking ■ Tool Identification (MS Only) ■ Tractor Operations (HS Only) ■ Vegetable Evaluation ■ Veterinary Assisting (HS Only)

Local Activities60 Points Possible (12 points per activity up to 60 points; must include activity in each of the following areas: Student, Chapter, and Community Development; Cannot duplicate activities recorded earlier in other standards)

FFA chapters should develop or participate in activities that promote a positive image and inform students, parents, school officials and the community about chapter and member accomplishments. These activities should also help the public become better informed about the food, fiber and natural resources industry.

Membership and Enrollment50 Points PossibleFFA is an integral part of the agriculture education program; therefore, all students should be FFA members. For Middle School Chapters, membership percentage should be based on average enrollment per grading period.

■ 0-10% membership (0 Points) ■ 11-25% membership (10 Points) ■ 26-50% membership (25 Points) ■ 51-100% membership (50 Points)

PROVISIONAL STATUS FOR NEW CHAPTERS

In order to be considered a quality chapter, newly charter chapters should be phased in by obtaining 80% of the required number of points during the first year, 90% during year two and 100% by year three.

New chapter status also applies to chapters where a teacher that is new to the program is hired.


CHAPTER CAMPAIGNS

Chapter campaigns are a new way for your chapter to earn recognition based on all of the awesome activities and achievements your chapter is involved in. Based on the Quality Chapter Report, Premier Chapter Award, and the National Chapter Award, your chapter can earn one or more of the four badges below. Your chapter will be recognized in the convention and expo program at the end of each year. The deadline for all of the campaigns and reporting the requirements is May 15.

MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGNGuide your membership efforts by meeting these goals.

10MORE MEMBERS THAN LAST YEAR

50MEMBERSHIP POINTS

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGNParticipate in Career Development Events and Leadership Conferences to meet these goals.

50CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENT POINTS

50LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE POINTS

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGNDevelop and foster relationships within your community by meeting these goals.

60LOCAL ACTIVITYPOINTS

2COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT CAMPAIGNPromote your chapter’s success by meeting these goals.

50AWARD APPLICATION POINTS

1TEACHER FAAE MEMBERSHIP

2SCHOOL-BASEDPARTNERSHIPS

1ALUMNI AWARD SUBMISSION (& ACTIVE ALUMNI)

1FOUNDATION ACTIVITY (OR ANNUAL DUES)

17LEADERSHIP CONFERENCES

LEADERSHIP CONFERENCESFlorida FFA creates leaders through helping students discover and develop their unique talents to meet the needs of their communities and of agriculture as a whole. Students attend various leadership conferences and workshops throughout the year to develop premier leadership qualities that the FFA has become known for.

This section of the guide provides information regarding the leadership conferences available to Florida FFA members.

BE THE LEADER


Leadership conferences are an opportunity for FFA members to connect with other members, develop their leadership skills, and discover new ways to make the most of their FFA career.

GENERAL POLICIES

RegistrationThe online registration must be completed for each attendee attending the conference, including advisors and chaperones. Online registration for each conference can be found in the Events section on FloridaFFA.org.

Permission FormFlorida FFA requires that each student complete and submit the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form for overnight events only. Please bring completed form with you to the conference. There is no need to mail/fax before the event. Please note that these forms are not kept on file and a new form is required for each conference.

PaymentFees are non-refundable unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance to check-in. All payments are due at time of check-in. If payment is not received at check-in, a credit card will be necessary to secure conference attendance.

Advisor AttendanceAs a matter of policy set by the Board of Directors of the Florida FFA Association, it is required that an advisor or other school district approved representative accompany all students to, from and while attending any Florida FFA event or activity. In the event that the advisor is unable to attend, a school district representative must be appointed by the school principal or superintendent and permission must be provided in writing to the Florida FFA Association. In the event that this policy is not followed, the student(s) will not be permitted to attend the event.

If your designated school district representative is another FFA advisor from your county, it is imperative that all parties are aware before arriving at the conference.

WHAT TO EXPECT

■ All FFA conferences require Official Dress. Students attending overnight conferences will also be required to wear business casual dress throughout the conference.

■ Teacher Professional Development and updates are available at most conferences.

■ Registration fee includes lodging, meals, conference materials and conference t-shirts at select conferences.

■ State FFA Officers or trained facilitators present an approved curriculum to students.

■ Students are roomed four per room and all efforts are made to keep chapters together.

■ Adult single rooms are subject to availibility.

CHAPERONES

Adult chaperones may attend in addition to the FFA advisor per school district requirements. In the event that the advisor is unable to attend, the chaperone must be appointed by the school principal or superintendent and permission must be provided in writing to the Florida FFA Association. It is imperative that chaperones are aware of all of the event details prior to the conference.


19LEADERSHIP CONFERENCES

CHAPTER PRESIDENTS CONFERENCESeptember 6-7 (Saturday-Sunday), Caribe Royale OrlandoRegister by August 22

Chapter Presidents’ Conference (CPC) first in a series of training conferences for chapter FFA officers. The conference helps newly elected chapter officers identify their strengths, develop personal growth plans, master speech writing and delivery and develop personal management skills.

This conference is open to two representatives from each chapter (ideally the chapter president and one other representative) as well as District, Sub-District, and Federation Officers This is an overnight conference and requires the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form Form.

Registration CostsStudent $100.00Adult Double $125.00Adult Single $175.00

CHAPTER OFFICER LEADERSHIP TRAINING Area 1 - September 25 (Thursday), MariannaArea 2 - September 26 (Friday), Florida Gateway CollegeArea 3 - September 30 (Tuesday), LTCArea 4 - October 1 (Wednesday), LTCArea 5 - October 2 (Thursday), LTCArea 6 - Ocotber 3 (Friday), LTCRegister by September 11

Chapter Officer Leadership Training (COLT) is the second conference in a training series for chapter FFA officers. Building on the individual skills learned during Chapter President’s Conference, it helps officer teams identify their strengths and weaknesses as a group, and learn advanced interpersonal communication strategies and presentation delivery techniques.

This conference is open to all FFA members, but is designed for chapter officers. This is a single-day conference.

Registration CostsStudent $25.00Adult $25.00

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONFERENCEDecember 5-6 (Friday-Saturday), LTCDecember 6-7 (Saturday-Sunday, LTCRegister by November 21

Middle School Conference (MSC) is a conference specifically designed to introduce middle school FFA members to opportunities in FFA. The conference helps middle school members discover leadership opportunities, potential career choices in agriculture, and the values of the FFA mission.

This conference is open to all middle school members. This is an overnight conference and requires the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form.


212° CONFERENCEJanuary 16-17 (Friday-Saturday). LTCRegister by January 2

212° – the temperature at which water boils – will focus on taking students to the boiling point of leadership. At 211° water is extremely hot, but just one more degree gets us to the next level. These conferences focus on student development. Students will be challenged to push the limits. Themes for this conference include: Virtues, growth and collaboration.

This conference is open to all high school members. This is an overnight conference and requires the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form.


360° CONFERENCEJanuary 17-18 (Saturday-Sunday). LTCRegister by January 2

360° – will take students full circle in chapter leadership development. The conference will cover every angle for developing action plans for their chapters. Themes for this conference include: Action and Influence. These conferences focus on chapter development.

This conference is open to all high school members. This is an overnight conference and requires the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form.


STATE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT March 13-15 (Friday-Sunday), LTCRegister by February 27

State Leadership Summit (SLS) is the final conference in the chapter FFA officer training series. Its advanced leadership training that builds on the first two components of the chapter FFA officer leadership continuum, CPC and COLT. In addition to leadership development, participants develop an understanding of partner relationships and begin the initial phase of the state delegate process.

This conference is open to District, Sub-District, and Federation Officers as well as those seniors who are seeking state office. This is an overnight conference and requires the Florida FFA Permission and Emergency Medical Form.




SPARKCHAPTER PRESIDENTS CONFERENCE

EMPOWERCHAPTER OFFICER LEADERSHIP TRAINING

ASPIREMIDDLE SCHOOL CONFERENCE

ENGAGESTATE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT

212°HIGH SCHOOL CONFERENCE

360°HIGH SCHOOL CONFERENCE

FFA creates leaders through helping students discover and develop their unique talents to meet the needs of their communities and of agriculture as a whole. Students attend various leadership conferences and workshops throughout the year to develop premier leadership qualities that the FFA has become known for.

September 6-7 (Saturday-Sunday), Caribe Royale OrlandoRegister by August 22

September-October, Multiple LocationsRegister by September 11

December 5-6 (Friday-Saturday), LTCDecember 6-7 (Saturday-Sunday, LTCRegister by November 21

January 16-17 (Friday-Saturday). LTCRegister by January 2

January 17-18 (Saturday-Sunday). LTCRegister by January 2

March 13-15 (Friday-Sunday), LTCRegister by February 27

BE THE LEADERLEADERSHIP CONFERENCES

LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE PLACE TO HOLD YOUR NEXT EVENT?The Leadership Training Center is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Pierce surrounded by untouched forest - just a short drive from Orlando and Tampa.

Weddings, Reunions, Receptions, Corporate Conferences, Retreats, and much more!

Special FFA Rates are available for ALL FFA Groups.

5000 Firetower Road • Haines City, FL 33844(863) 439-7332 • www.flaltc.org

The Florida FFA Leadership Training Center is owned and operated by the Florida FFA Foundation.


Event/Application Date Event/Application Registration Deadline/Due Location

AUGUSTAugust 5 Quarterly Board Meeting LTC

August 23-24 Florida FFA Alumni Development Conference Contact Alumni LTC

SEPTEMBERSeptember 6-7 Chapter Presidents Conference August 22 Caribe Royale Orlando

September 10 New Teacher Workshop (1-3 year teachers only) August 27 Gainesville

September 10 American Agriculture Experience (State FFA Officers) Iowa

September 25 Chapter Officer Leadership Training – Area 1 September 11 Marianna

September 26 Chapter Officer Leadership Training – Area 2 September 11 Florida Gateway College (Lake City)

September 29 FFA Hall of Fame*** Contact Foundation LTC

September 30 Chapter Officer Leadership Training – Area 3 September 11 LTC

OCTOBEROctober 1 Quality Chapter Plan, Roster, Dues October 8 Florida FFA HQ / AgCN

October 1 Chapter Officer Leadership Training – Area 4 September 11 LTC



October 9 District Forestry CDE Preliminary (MS/HS) Contact District Host Specific Districts TBA

October 14 Quarterly Board Meeting Florida FFA HQ

October 16 District Forestry CDE Preliminary (MS/HS) Contact District Host Specific Districts TBA

October 29-November 1 National FFA Convention Contact National FFA Louisville, KY

NOVEMBERNovember 13-14 State Forestry CDE (MS/HS) Qualified Teams Perry

November 15 Firetower Run-A-Muck & Swamp Fest BBQ Comp. Contact Foundation LTC

November 18 Fall Preliminary Testing Day ■ Food Science CDE ■ Environmental Science CDE ■ Dairy Evaluation CDE

November 4 School Hosts

DECEMBERDecember 2 State Citrus CDE (MS/HS)

State Tool ID CDE (MS)November 18 LTC

December 5-6 Middle School Leadership Conference (MS) A November 21 LTC

December 6-7 Middle School Leadership Conference (MS) B November 21 LTC

December 6 FFA Horse Judging School Contact UF Animal Sciences UF Horse Unit (Gainesville)

December 11 Sub-District CDE Preliminaries ■ Creed Speaking CDE (MS/HS) ■ Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE (MS/HS) ■ Opening and Closing Ceremonies CDE (MS) ■ Parliamentary Procedure CDE (MS/HS) ■ Prepared Public Speaking CDE (MS/HS) ■ Tractor Operations CDE (HS)

November 27 Sub-District Hosts

December 19 - January 4 Florida FFA Headquarters Closed (Holiday Break)

JANUARYJanuary 9-10 FFA Meats & Livestock Judging Clinic Contact UF Animal Sciences UF (Gainesville)

January 13 State Environmental Science CDE (HS) Qualified Teams UF/IFAS Mid-FL REC (Apopka)

January 16-17 212° High School Leadership Conference January 2 LTC

January 17-18 360° High School Leadership Conference January 2 LTC

January 20 ■ District CDE Preliminaries ■ Creed Speaking CDE (MS/HS ■ Extemporaneous Public Speaking CDE (MS/HS) ■ Opening and Closing Ceremonies CDE (MS) ■ Parliamentary Procedure CDE (MS/HS) ■ Prepared Public Speaking CDE (MS/HS) ■ Tractor Operations CDE (HS)

Qualified Teams Only District Hosts

January 22 Quarterly Board Meeting Florida FFA HQ

January 23-25 FAAE Mid-Winter Conference*** Contact FAAE LTC

January 30 State Officer Candidate Workshop January 16 Florida FFA HQ

January 31 State Food Science CDE (MS/HS) Qualified Teams UF (Gainesville)

January 31 State Horse Judging CDE (MS Only) January 16 UF Horse Unit (Gainesville)

FEBRUARYFebruary 7 State Horse Judging CDE Preliminary (HS)

State Livestock Judging CDE Prelim. - Areas 3-6 (HS)January 23 Florida State Fair

February 14 State Dairy Judging CDE (MS/HS) Qualified Teams Only Florida State Fair

February 14 State Fair Poultry Judging Event (MS/HS) January 30 Florida State Fair

February 21-28 National FFA Week Nationwide

February 27 State Livestock Judging CDE Prelim. - Areas 1-2 (HS) February 13 Chipley

MARCHMarch 2 Membership Roster Update March 2 AgCN

March 2 State Officer Application March 2 Florida FFA HQ

FLORIDA FFA CALENDAR

23INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS

March 2 Alumni EssaysAmerican FFA Degree ApplicationState FFA Degree ApplicationStar Award Applications

March 9 Florida FFA HQ

March 3 Spring Preliminary Testing Day ■ Agricultural Mechanics CDE ■ Aquaculture CDE ■ Vet Assisting CDE

February 17 School Hosts

March 6 State Livestock Judging CDE (MS) February 20 Florida Strawberry Festival

March 7 State Floriculture CDE (MS/HS)State Nursery and Landscape CDE (MS/HS)

February 20 UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research Center (Apopka)

March 13-15 State Leadership Summit February 27 LTC

March 21 Florida FFA Beast Feast*** Contact Foundation LTC

March TBA State Land Judging CDE TBA TBA

March-April District OH Demonstration CDEs (MS/HS) Contact District Hosts District Hosts

APRILApril 1 Ag. Communications CDE Portfolio (Submit Online) April 1 Dr. Ricky Telg (UF)

April 1 Alumni Membership Rosters Due April 8 AgCN

April 1 Ag. Education CDE Lesson Plans (HS)Ag. Electrification Essay (MS)

April 8 Florida FFA HQ

April 4 State Horse Judging CDE (HS) Qualified Teams UF Horse Unit Gainesville)

April 6 National Officer Candidate Screening March 23 LTC

April 7-8 State Officer Candidate Screening March 23 LTC

April 9 Quarterly Board Meeting LTC

April 11 State Livestock Judging CDE (HS) Qualified Teams UF Horse Unit (Gainesville)

April 11 State Poultry Judging CDE (MS/HS) March 27 UF Meats Lab (Gainesville)

April 15 Agriscience Fair ApplicationAlumni Award ApplicationChapter Co-Op ApplicationFresh From Florida Advocacy Award ApplicationNational Chapter Award ApplicationProficiency Award ApplicationOutstanding District Officer Award Application

April 22 Florida FFA HQ

April 18 State Meats CDE (MS/HS) April 3 UF Meats Lab (Gainesville)

April 24 State Agricultural Education CDE Preliminary (HS)State Agricultural Sales and Service CDE (HS)State Agricultural Communications CDE (HS)State OH Demonstration CDE (MS/HS)State Vegetable Judging CDE (MS/HS)

April 10 UF (Gainesville)

MAYMay 1 Feeder Steer & Swine Proficiency Applications

Job Interview CDE PortfolioState Convention Talent ApplicationState Convention Courtesy Corps Application

May 8 Florida FFA HQ

May 2 State Agricultural Mechanics CDE (HS)State Tractor Operations CDE (HS)

Qualified Teams Ridge Career Ctr. (Haines City)

May 3-4 Award Application Judging April 19 LTC

May 8 State Aquaculture CDE (MS/HS) Qualified Teams UF Trop. Aqua. Lab (Ruskin)

May 9 State Veterinary Assisting CDE (HS) Qualified Teams HCC (Plant City)

May 15 Quality Chapter Report (Submit Online)District Officer ApplicationPrepared Public Speaking Manuscript (Submit Online)

May 22 Florida FFA HQ

JUNEJune 1 Agricultural Issues CDE Portfolio (Submit Online) June 8 Florida FFA HQ

June 14-17 Florida Outdoor Adventures*** Contact Foundation LTC

June 17-20 Florida Leadership Adventures*** Contact Foundation LTC

June 29-July 3 87th Florida FFA State Convention & Expo ■ Agribusiness Management CDE ■ Agricultural Education CDE ■ Agricultural Electrification Essay Interviews ■ Agricultural Issues CDE ■ Agriscience Fair ■ Creed Speaking CDE ■ Extemporaneous Public Speaking ■ Job Interview CDE ■ Opening and Closing Ceremonies CDE ■ Parliamentary Procedure CDE ■ Prepared Public Speaking CDE

May 15 Caribe Royale Orlando

JULYJuly 12-17 High School Forestry Camp May 15 O’Leno State Park

July 20-24 Middle School Forestry Camp May 15 O’Leno State Park

AUGUSTAugust 2-5 Florida Leadership Adventures*** Contact Foundation LTC

August 5-8 Florida Outdoor Adventures*** Contact Foundation LTC


CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENTSFFA members participate in 30 challenging competitions know as Career Development Events (CDEs) each year. CDEs provide an opportunity for students to apply the real-world agricultural skills learned in the classroom to industry-focused, hands-on situations. These competitions rely on industry support and guidance to ensure that FFA members are trained to be the best and brightest.

This section of the guide provides an overview of the Career Development Events program. Additional information is available in the Florida FFA CDE Handbook.

BE THE CHAMPION

25CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENTS

Career opportunities abound within today’s agribusiness and agriscience industry. The Florida FFA Association offers 30 Career Development Events (CDEs) that cover job skills in everything from communications to mechanics while helping students develop the abilities to think clearly, communicate clearly, and perform effectively in a competitive real-world environment. Whether you enjoy public speaking or creating new and improved food items, competing as part of a team or as an individual, there is a CDE tailored to the interests of each and every FFA member.

The primary goal of career development events is to develop individual responsibilities, foster teamwork and promote communication while recognizing the value of ethical competition and individual achievement. Career development events should reflect instruction that currently takes place in the entire agricultural education program, including classroom instruction, laboratory instruction and student’s supervised agricultural experiences. CDEs are intended to be an outgrowth of instruction.

GENERAL POLICIES

Member EligibilityTo be eligible for participation in FFA Career Development Events, a participant must be an active member in good standing with the local bona fide chapter, State and National Associations for the school year during which the event is held (or the previous year), be in enrolled in Agribusiness and Natural Resources Education, and maintain a Supervised agricultural Experience (SAE) program. Note: Certain exceptions may apply; see official Florida FFA CDE Handbook for complete member eligibility requirements.

Graduating seniors who are state winners, either individual or team, may compete in the respective CDE at National Convention following their graduation from high school so long as they maintain their active membership status.

A member who is former state winner, either individual or team, in a particular CDE is ineligible to compete in that CDE again with the exception of when a student moves from a middle school chapter to a high school chapter. The student must not have previously participated in a National Career Development Event of the same kind.

Few exceptions will be made in the scheduling of events for individuals/teams participating in two events, which are held simultaneously. Prior notice must be given to the Florida FFA Association office for such consideration.

Official DressStudents participating in CDEs are required to wear FFA Official Dress. Official dress requirements are based on the event classification, all CDEs will be classified as either an Indoor/Leadership event or an Outdoor event and students will be scored accordingly. Refer to the Florida FFA CDE Handbook for complete Official Dress Guidelines, scoring information and official dress exceptions for safety.

RegistrationPre-registration is required for all events at the sub-district, district and state level, unless otherwise announced by the Florida FFA Association. Registration will open approximately four weeks prior to the event and will close approximately two weeks prior to the event, as published on the official Florida FFA calendar.

Online registration for each CDE can be found in the Events section on FloridaFFA.org.

Following the close of registration, a list of registered teams will be distributed electronically on the Florida FFA listserv. If a chapter’s name does not appear on the list as a result of registration error, notification must be made to the Florida FFA Office within twenty-four (24) hours or by the published deadline. Chapters not properly registered will not be eligible for competition.

CDE ResourcesIn addition to the references listed for each CDE in the Florida FFA CDE Handbook, written exams and practicums from past CDEs are made available at flaffa.org.

CDE HandbookThe Florida FFA CDE Handbook contains the official rules and regulations for all Florida FFA CDEs. Inside the CDE Handbook you will find specific details for each CDE offered through Florida FFA including the official dress requirements, event purpose, event procedures, event practicums as well as recommended resources

CAREER DEVELOPMENT EVENTS


for event preparation. Please thoroughly read the Policies and Official Dress Sections in the beginning of the handbook for complete rules and procedures that are relevant to all Florida FFA Career Development Events.

The CDE Handbook has been reformatted to include an Event Practicums section for each CDE. Each category of event practicums is assigned an icon that will appear in the CDE Handbook. All event practicums fall into one of seven categories:

Knowledge PracticumThis practicum will include all general knowledge exams.

Written PracticumThis practicum includes an activity that would require the participants to demonstrate proper writing techniques including but not limited to proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, etc. Examples include:

■ Press Release Writing (Environmental Science CDE)

■ Official Minutes (Parliamentary Procedure CDE)

■ Agricultural Issues Portfolio (Agricultural Issues CDE)

Performance PracticumPerformance practicums include both individual performances as well as team performances. Performance practicums require participants to demonstrate public speaking abilities for various activities within the CDE. Examples include:

■ Team Product Development (Food Science CDE)

■ Prepared Public Speaking (Prepared Public Speaking CDE)

■ Oral Reasons (Dairy, Horse, Livestock & Poultry Evaluation CDE)

Problem Solving PracticumThis practicum will require students to think critically in order to find a solution to a given scenario. Examples include:

■ Water Quality Analysis (Aquaculture CDE) ■ Meat Formulation (Meat Evaluation CDE) ■ Customer Service (Nursery & Landscape CDE)

Skills PracticumThe skills practicums requires participants to demonstrate their knowledge various agricultural skills. Examples include:

■ Timber Cruising (Forestry CDE) ■ Animal Restraint Techniques (Veterinary

Assisting CDE) ■ GPS Locations (Environmental Science CDE)

Evaluation PracticumThe evaluation practicum will allow participants to evaluate specimens in comparison to other specimens and/or the ideal standard for the given situation. Examples include:

■ Performance & Halter Placing Classes (Horse Evaluation CDE)

■ Interior Egg Quality (Poultry Evaluation CDE) ■ Beef Quality & Yield Grades (Meats Evaluation

CDE)

Identification PracticumParticipants will demonstrate their ability to properly identify various specimens from either photos or live specimens. Examples include:

■ Rootstocks, Leaves & Fruit (Citrus CDE) ■ Plants, Pests & Tool (Floriculture CDE) ■ Kinds & Varieties (Vegetable CDE)

CHANGES FOR 2014-15

■ Agriculture Education CDE– Official reference updated The official reference is the Cengage Agriscience Applications & Fundamentals textbook

■ Vegetable Identification & Judging CDE – Official Dress change Will be now be considered an outdoor CDE.

■ Dairy Evaluation CDE – Exam resource change & event format change Management Exam Resource will now be the Virginia Dairy Quiz Bowl Study Materials Preliminary Event will consist of 25 question management exam, 25 question PDCA scorecard exam, 2 classes of pedigrees State Finals will consist of 25 question management exam, 20 question DHIA team activity, 4-6 classes live cattle, oral reasons (1 set for middle school, 2 for high school)

■ Job Interview CDE – Font & Font Size for cover letter and resume Font should be Times, Times New Roman, or Arial, 11 point minimum font

■ Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration CDE – Event format change Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration CDE Preliminaries will be conducted at the district level instead of the area level. Winner in each category advances to the state competition.

■ Floriculture CDE - Event format change Tool and Pest Identification added to the Identification practicum Written exam has been removed from the event. Topics previously tested in the written exam will be tested through the problem solving and skills practicums.

■ Nursery & Landscape CDE - Event format change Written exam has been removed from the event. Topics previously tested in the written exam will be tested through the problem solving and skills practicums.

■ MS Nursery & Landscape - Event format change Students will complete 1 live practicum and 1 problem solving practicum; this is decreased from years past when students completed 2 live and 2 problem-solving practicums.


WHAT TO EXPECT

The day of a CDE is exciting for all involved but can become hectic if you are not prepared. Below are helpful items to keep in mind for both FFA members and Advisors/chaperons for the day of the event:

■ Contestants must provide their own pens, pencils, erasers, clipboards and other necessary items needed for competition.

■ There is not a meal provided at most CDEs therefore students are encouraged eat a healthy meal before the start of the event and make an effort to stay properly hydrated throughout the event.

■ FFA members must be accompanied by a school district approved chaperon at all events.

■ There shall be no communication among the contestants or between contestants and anyone else except as directed by the event coordinator while the event is in progress. It is prohibited for advisors or anyone else to interfere with, interrupt or distract a contestant wile the event is in progress. If there is an obvious and flagrant infraction of this rule, the vent coordinator has the authority to disqualify the violator competition.

■ Advisors and/or chaperons will be expected to assist in event facilitation (i.e. act as group leaders, room monitors, proctors, etc.) as requested by the event coordinator. This is to ensure that the event runs in an efficient manor and we thank you in advance for your cooperation in this matter.

■ It is the Advisors responsibility to review how to properly fill out all judging cards with their team members prior to the event. Judging cards that are incorrectly completed will not be scored.

■ Participants will not be allowed to utilize electronic devices, other than those approved by event officials, during the entire course of the event. Participants who access personal electronic devices without prior approval of the event officials will be disqualified.

ONLINE TESTING PROCEDURES

Several CDEs have a preliminary event that will be held through an online process. The online testing process will allow students to compete in the preliminary event from their own school under the supervision of an exam proctor.

■ On the date of the Fall and Spring CDE Preliminary Testing Day and online testing system will be used to administer the exams.

■ All participants are expected to comply with the Florida FFA Code of Honesty and Integrity.

■ Students must be pre-registered for the event in which they are competing.

■ An exam proctor is required for each participating chapter. The exam may be anyone other than the Agriculture teacher(s)/FFA Advisor(s) of the chapter. Proctors must be registered and approved through Proctor registration process. Proctors are to be in compliance with the Florida FFA Code of Honesty and Integrity.

■ Exams will be available only during the designated hours on the day of the preliminary testing. Exams will be available for no less that 12 hours. There will be no make-up exams/make-up days, all testing must be completed on the designated testing day.

CDE PARTICIPATION FEE

An annual CDE Participation fee will be assessed to each chapter at the time of submitting the Quality Chapter Plan. This one-time, annual fee will cover all individual registration fees for CDEs throughout the year. The fee structure is listed below:

■ $50 - Middle School Chapters ■ $75 - Junior Chapters ■ $100 - Senior Chapters

CDE CHECKLIST

Before the Event ☐ Complete online event registration ☐ Review event procedures and practicums in the latest

Florida FFA CDE Handbook. ☐ Review the Florida FFA Code of Honesty and Integrity

with all participants. ☐ Complete school procedures for taking students to an

FFA event ☐ Gather student permission forms required by your school

district ☐ Arrange transportation to and from the event ☐ Secure lodging (if needed) ☐ Identify whether participants need indoor or outdoor

Official Dress ☐ Review the judging cards/rubrics with participants ☐ Complete required substitute materials

Day of the EventBe sure that the students have supplies necessary for the event:

☐ Pencils ☐ Clipboards ☐ Calculators (if needed) ☐ Ensure all participants have correct and complete ☐ Official Dress ☐ Make meal arrangements (if needed) ☐ Ensure participants don’t access electronic devices

during the event unless approved by the event superintendent and/or Florida FFA staff

☐ Check in and pick up materials upon arrival


AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Agribusiness Management Career Development Event provides competition that fosters information assimilation, critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to successfully manage a farm or pursue farm business management careers. The Agribusiness Management Career Development Event enhances and encourages opportunities for all participants to receive instruction that develops farm business management skills.

Event Highlights: complete a written exam based on problematic situations including a problem solving analysis sectionDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS High School, Team (3 Members)The purpose of the Agricultural Communications Career Development Event is to provide individuals with practical communications skills necessary to pursue career opportunities in agricultural communications. Public communications about agricultural products, practices and policies are essential to the future of agriculture. Students who are equipped with strong communication skills, have developed teamwork skills and who can use a variety of media to help the public understand issues related to the industry of agriculture have a bright future in the job market.

Event Highlights: develop and present an agriculture-related media planDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION High School, IndividualThe purpose of the Agricultural Education Career Development Event is to provide individuals with basic skills necessary for a career as an agricultural educator. Teaching agriculture involves teaching students about applications of science, management, leadership, and technology in the food, fiber, natural resource industry. Teaching methods emphasize hands on approaches where application of skills and knowledge is central to lesson presentations. Agricultural Education strives to make learning enjoyable, meaningful and lasting. Agriculture Education incorporates classroom and laboratory instruction, supervised agricultural experiences (SAE), and the FFA to allow for the personal development of students both inside and outside the classroom to better prepare them for success in life.

Event Highlights: create and demonstrate an agriculture lesson planDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

AGRICULTURAL ISSUES High School, Team (3-7 Members)The Agricultural Issues Career Development Event is designed to provide an opportunity to expose a wide variety of students to the selection, research, planning and presentation of an agricultural issue, acquire knowledge and skills in community leadership for present and future use and become knowledgeable of, and familiar with a variety of local, state, national and international issues facing agriculture.

Event Highlights: Develop agricultural issue portfolio and agricultural issue presentationDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS High School, Team (3-4 Members)This event is designed to stimulate learning in the five areas of the agricultural mechanics industry: machinery and equipment systems, electrical systems, energy systems, structural systems and environmental and natural resource systems.

Event Highlights: complete hands-on practicums including but not limited to electrical wiring, measuring materials, welding & cutting, engine components, etc.Does this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

AGRICULTURAL SALES AND SERVICE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Agricultural Sales Career Development Event is to evaluate skills that are essential for an individual to be successful in the agricultural sales field. The process of selling agricultural products is essential for production and marketing of agricultural products.

Event Highlights: Participate in an team and individual sales activity based on provided product informationDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

AQUACULTURE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Aquaculture Career Development Event (CDE) is to stimulate student interest in the aquaculture industry, encourage aquaculture instruction in the agricultural education curriculum, and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies in the area of aquaculture management. Florida has a unique and diverse aquaculture industry which includes the culture of tropical ornamental fish, aquatic plants, clams, shrimp, alligators, tilapia, catfish, live rock, and other assorted aquatic animals.

Event Highlights: Present a team presentation based on a given aquaculture topic, identify aquatic species, analyze water quality, design & troubleshoot aquatic systems, and identify & treat aquatic disease, pests & predatorsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS


CITRUS High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Citrus Career Development Event stimulates learning activities to the production and management of citrus fruit.

Event Highlights: identify various citrus diseases/disorders, pests,pathogens,parasites & predators, common weeds and citrus rootstocks, leaves & fruitDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

DAIRY CATTLE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Dairy CDE is to provide a competitive event for agricultural education students, emphasizing skills in dairy cattle evaluation, selection and dairy herd management.

Event Highlights: evaluate dairy cattle, read and interpret dairy cattle herd recordsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

ENVIRONMENTAL & NATURAL RESOURCES High School, Team (3-4 Members)Environmental and natural resource education has a responsibility to ensure an educated public and provide students prepared to enter careers in the environmental and natural resource industry. The purpose of the environmental and natural resource career development event is to stimulate student interest and to promote environmental and natural resource instruction in the agricultural education curriculum and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies as a result of environmental and natural resource instruction.

Event Highlights: present a team presentation on about a given environmental/natural resource problem, identify common plants, wildlife, reptiles/amphibians, fish and more, analyze water quality, complete a soil nutrient test,and determine locations through the use of GPSDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING High School, IndividualThe Extemporaneous Public Speaking Career Development Event is designed to develop the ability of all FFA members to express themselves on a given subject without having prepared or rehearsed its content in advance, therefore causing FFA members to formulate their remarks for presentation in a very limited amount of time.

Event Highlights: develop a 4-6 minute speech on a randomly selected agricultural topic within the 30 minute time limit and present the speech to a panel of judgesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

FLORICULTURE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Floriculture CDE stimulates interest in learning activities related to the Floriculture industry, including the identification of plants, business situations and safety issues.

Event Highlights: Identify common floriculture plants, participate in a hands-on floriculture live practicum, price floriculture products and properly handling common customer complaintsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Food Science and Technology CDE is designed to promote learning activities in food science and technology related to the food industry and to assist students in developing practical knowledge of principles used in a team decision-making process.

Event Highlights: develop and market a new or redesigned food product as a team, complete a food triangle test, identify aromas, address food safety and quality through customer inquiriesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

FORESTRY High School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Forestry CDE is to stimulate student interest in forestry, to promote forestry instruction in the agricultural education curriculum, and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skill and competency as a result of forestry instruction.

Event Highlights: identify tree species, forest equipment & disorders, evaluate timber to determine wood volume, interpret topographical maps, and complete a compass and pacing practicumDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

HORSE EVALUATION High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Horse Evaluation and Selection Career Development Event is designed to stimulate the study of and interest in, equine science selection while providing recognition for those who have demonstrated skill and competency in this area.

Event Highlights: evaluate halter and performance classes of horses and defend your placings through oral reasonsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

JOB INTERVIEW High School, IndividualThe FFA Job Interview Career Development Event is designed for FFA members to develop, practice and demonstrate skills needed in seeking employment in the agricultural industry. Each part of the event simulates “real world” activities that will be used by real world employers.

Event Highlights: Complete a job application, develop a cover letter & resume, participate in a telephone & personal interview and write a follow-up letterDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

LAND JUDGING High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Land Judging CDE is designed to stimulate learning activities related to soils and their best use.

Event Highlights: Evaluate soil pits and complete a homesite evaluationDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes


LIVESTOCK High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Livestock Evaluation and Selection Career Development Event stimulates learning activities related to the production and marketing of cattle, sheep and swine.

Event Highlights: evaluate classes of market & breeding cattle, swine, sheep & goats, and defend your placings through oral reasonsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

MEATS EVALUATION High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Meats Evaluation Career Development Event is designed to stimulate learning activities related to the processing of beef, pork and lamb carcasses, including retail cut identification and factors affecting meat quality.

Event Highlights: Identify retail cuts of beef, pork & lamb, evaluate classes or retail cuts, beef & pork carcasses, wholesale cuts and determine beef quality & yield gradesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

NURSERY & LANDSCAPE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Nursery and Landscape Career Development Event is designed to stimulate learning activities related to nursery practices and landscaping including the identification of plants, insects, and diseases.

Event Highlights: Identify common nursery plants, pests & tools, interpret landscape plans, evaluate landscaping jobs, identify and control plant disorders and perform equipment maintenanceDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE DEMONSTRATION High School, Individual or Team (2 Members)The Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration Contests are designed to stimulate careful planning, thorough knowledge and the ability to explain, by work and action, the “how and why” of various horticulture practices.

Event Highlights: develop and present a 7-10 minute presentation about various areas of the ornamental horticulture industryDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE High School, Team (6 Members)The purpose of the Parliamentary Procedure CDE is to encourage students to learn to effectively participate in a business meeting and to assist in the development of their leadership skills.

Event Highlights: conduct a portion of a business meeting using correct parliamentary lawDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

POULTRY High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Poultry Career Development Event stimulates learning related to the production, processing, marketing and consumption of poultry products.

Event Highlights: evaluate live birds, grade ready to cook broilers, grades for interior & exterior quality, identify poultry carcass partsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

PREPARED SPEAKING High School, IndividualThe Prepared Public Speaking Career Development Event is designed to develop agricultural leadership by providing for member participation in agricultural public speaking activities and stimulating interest in leadership and citizenship.

Event Highlights: develop a 6-8 minute speech about an agricultural topic of your choice and present the speech to a panel of judgesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

TRACTOR OPERATION & MAINTENANCE High School, IndividualThe Safe Tractor Operation and Maintenance Contest is designed to develop the ability of all FFA members to demonstrate the knowledge and ability as related to the maintenance and safe operation skills of tractors.

Event Highlights: demonstrate a knowledge of safe tractor operations and demonstrate the ability to drive a tractor and attached implement through a predetermined courseDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

VEGETABLE High School, Team (3-4 Members)The Vegetable Identification and Judging event is designed to test skills and knowledge of students in the area of vegetable production and management.

Event Highlights: evaluate classes of vegetables, identify kinds & varieties of vegetables, insects, diseases, weeds and seedsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

VETERINARY ASSISTING High School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the veterinary assisting CDE is to provide students with an opportunity to develop and demonstrate knowledge and skills for both companion animal and livestock within the veterinary industry.

Event Highlights: identify breeds of livestock & companion animals, equipment & instruments preform common veterinarian skills including: applying/removing a gauze restraint muzzle, wrapping a surgical gown, canine cardiopulmonary resuscitation and preparing an animal for surgeryDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)


AQUACULTURE Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Aquaculture Career Development Event (CDE) is to stimulate student interest in the aquaculture industry, encourage aquaculture instruction in the agricultural education curriculum, and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skills and competencies in the area of aquaculture management. Florida has a unique and diverse aquaculture industry which includes the culture of tropical ornamental fish, aquatic plants, clams, shrimp, alligators, tilapia, catfish, live rock, and other assorted aquatic animals.

Event Highlights: Present a team presentation based on a given aquaculture topic, identify aquatic species, analyze water quality, design & troubleshoot aquatic systems, and identify & treat aquatic disease, pests & predatorsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

CITRUS Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Citrus Career Development Event stimulates learning activities to the production and management of citrus fruit.

Event Highlights: identify various citrus diseases/disorders, pests,pathogens,parasites & predators, common weeds and citrus rootstocks, leaves & fruitDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

DAIRY CATTLE Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Dairy CDE is to provide a competitive event for agricultural education students, emphasizing skills in dairy cattle evaluation, selection and dairy herd management.

Event Highlights: evaluate dairy cattle, read and interpret dairy cattle herd recordsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

ELECTRIFICATION ESSAY Middle School, IndividualThe Agricultural Electrification Essay CDE is designed to stimulate understanding of energy saving measures and devices that can be applied around the home and within the agricultural industry.

Event Highlights: write an essay centered around the topic, “Conserving Electrical Energy”Does this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING Middle School, IndividualThe Extemporaneous Public Speaking Career Development Event is designed to develop the ability of all FFA members to express themselves on a given subject without having prepared or rehearsed its content in advance, therefore causing FFA members to formulate their remarks for presentation in a very limited amount of time.

Event Highlights: develop a 3-5 minute speech on a randomly selected agricultural topic within the 30 minute time limit and present the speech to a panel of judgesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

FLORICULTURE Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Floriculture CDE stimulates interest in learning activities related to the Floriculture industry, including the identification of plants, business situations and safety issues.

Event Highlights: Identify common floriculture plants, participate in a hands-on floriculture live practicum, price floriculture products and properly handling common customer complaintsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Food Science and Technology CDE is designed to promote learning activities in food science and technology related to the food industry and to assist students in developing practical knowledge of principles used in a team decision-making process.

Event Highlights: develop and market a new or redesigned food product as a team, complete a food triangle test, identify aromas, address food safety and quality through customer inquiriesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes (Online)

FORESTRY Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The purpose of the Forestry CDE is to stimulate student interest in forestry, to promote forestry instruction in the agricultural education curriculum, and to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated skill and competency as a result of forestry instruction.

Event Highlights: identify tree species, forest equipment & disorders, evaluate timber to determine wood volume, interpret topographical maps, and complete a compass and pacing practicumDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

HORSE EVALUATION Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Horse Evaluation and Selection Career Development Event is designed to stimulate the study of and interest in, equine science selection while providing recognition for those who have demonstrated skill and competency in this area.

Event Highlights: evaluate halter classes of horses and complete a skilathon based various aspects of the equine industryDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

LAND JUDGING Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Land Judging CDE is designed to stimulate learning activities related to soils and their best use.

Event Highlights: Evaluate soil pits and complete a homesite evaluationDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

MIDDLE SCHOOL EVENTS


LIVESTOCK Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Livestock Evaluation and Selection Career Development Event stimulates learning activities related to the production and marketing of cattle, sheep and swine.

Event Highlights: evaluate classes of market & breeding cattle, swine, sheep & goats, and complete a skilathon based on the beef & swine industriesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

MEATS EVALUATION Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Meats Evaluation Career Development Event is designed to stimulate learning activities related to the processing of beef, pork and lamb carcasses, including retail cut identification and factors affecting meat quality.

Event Highlights: Identify retail cuts of beef, pork & lamb and evaluate classes or retail cutsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

NURSERY & LANDSCAPE Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Nursery and Landscape Career Development Event is designed to stimulate learning activities related to nursery practices and landscaping including the identification of plants, insects, and diseases.

Event Highlights: Identify common nursery plants, pests & tools, interpret landscape plans, evaluate landscaping jobs, identify and control plant disorders and perform equipment maintenanceDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE DEMONSTRATION Middle School, Individual or Team (2 Members)The Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration Contests are designed to stimulate careful planning, thorough knowledge and the ability to explain, by work and action, the “how and why” of various horticulture practices.

Event Highlights: develop and present a 7-10 minute presentation about various areas of the ornamental horticulture industryDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

OPENING AND CLOSING CEREMONIES Middle School, Team (7 Members)The Opening and Closing Ceremony CDE is designed to develop agricultural leadership by providing for middle school members participation in public speaking activities and stimulating interest in leadership and citizenship.

Event Highlights: memorize and perform the official FFA Opening & Closing CeremoniesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE Middle School, Team (6 Members)The purpose of the Parliamentary Procedure CDE is to encourage students to learn to effectively participate in a business meeting and to assist in the development of their leadership skills.

Event Highlights: conduct a portion of a business meeting using correct parliamentary lawDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

POULTRY Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Poultry Career Development Event stimulates learning related to the production, processing, marketing and consumption of poultry products.

Event Highlights: evaluate live birds, grade ready to cook broilers, grades for interior & exterior quality, identify poultry carcass partsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

PREPARED SPEAKING Middle School, IndividualThe Prepared Public Speaking Career Development Event is designed to develop agricultural leadership by providing for member participation in agricultural public speaking activities and stimulating interest in leadership and citizenship.

Event Highlights: develop a 4-6 minute speech about an agricultural topic of your choice and present the speech to a panel of judgesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? Yes

TOOL IDENTIFICATION Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Tool Identification Event is designed to develop the ability to correctly identify the names and uses of a variety of tools common to the Agricultural Education Curriculum.

Event Highlights: identify common agricultural tools and their usesDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

VEGETABLE Middle School, Team (3-4 Members)The Vegetable Identification and Judging event is designed to test skills and knowledge of students in the area of vegetable production and management.

Event Highlights: evaluate classes of vegetables, identify kinds & varieties of vegetables, insects, diseases, weeds and seedsDoes this event have a preliminary/qualifier? No

33AWARD PROGRAMS

AWARD PROGRAMSFFA has an award to match almost any member’s unique talents and interests. Students and teachers are able to find a program that interests them, set a goal, and work hard to achieve it. Students gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in all aspects of life. Additionally, FFA members can earn degrees as they progress through the phases of their leadership, academic and career skills development.

This section of the guide provides information about Florida FFA’s award programs and applications.

BE THE WINNER


FFA has an extensive award program, implemented at the local, state and national levels, with an award to match almost any member’s unique talents and interests. Awards provide incentives for members and chapters to set goals and work toward achieving them. The result is a membership dedicated to progress in their chosen areas of interest.

AWARD SUBMISSION

Award applications are to be submitted directly to the Florida FFA Office either by hand delivery or sent through the mail. Applicants who mail their award applications are encouraged to send them using a method that can be tracked (e.g. UPS) in the case that an issue was to arise. Applications that are received through email or fax will not be accepted.

AWARD APPLICATION DEADLINES

All award application due dates are listed in the “Event/Application Date” of the Florida FFA calendar. There is a seven calendar-day grace period on award applications unless otherwise noted. This date is listed in the “Registration Deadline/Due” column of the calendar, and is the date that document should be in the Florida FFA Office (not postmarked). Applications received after this date may not be accepted.

AWARD APPLICATION REVISION

Competitive award applications such as proficiency applications and National Chapter Award applications that are selected at state finalist/winners will be returned to the chapter for revision before being sent on to National FFA for judging. A panel of judges will have reviewed the applications and feedback will be provided on the applications. It is expected that any application returned for revision be corrected and a new copy be returned to Florida FFA by the specified due date. Applications that are not properly revised may not be sent on to National FFA for judging.

ONLINE AWARD APPLICATIONS

Beginning 2015, a number of award applications must be completed online. An active MyFFA login is required for each student completing applications for proficiency awards, state degrees, American degrees, and star awards. Awards are still printed and submitted to Florida FFA for judging and approval.

RESOURCES

In addition to several workshops offered throughout the year at conferences, State and National Convention there are numerous online resources available at ffa.org to help members and advisors prepare for the various award programs.

■ Official FFA Manual ■ Agriscience Fair Handbook ■ National Chapter Award Program Handbook ■ Agriculture Proficiency Award Handbook ■ American FFA Degree Application Guide

AWARD APPLICATION REMINDERS

Listed below are some items to keep in mind when completing and submitting award applications:

■ Binding – Applications are to be bound when they are submitted. Acceptable forms of binding: stapling, spiral binding or three-prong award application folders. Unacceptable forms of binding: paper clips, three-ring binders.

■ Paper – Applications should be printed on a high quality, matte, white paper. Applications should not be printed on card stock, colored or glossy paper.

■ Printing – Applications should printed single-sided only. ■ Pictures – Any pictures include in an application should be of

the highest quality possible and printed in color. ■ Signatures – Applications that are missing signatures will be

disqualified. ■ Altered Applications – Applications that have been altered

from their original form will be disqualified.

AWARD PROGRAMS

35AWARD PROGRAMS

AWARD AWARD TYPE DUE DATE ACCESSED FROM APPLICATION TYPE HOW TO SUBMIT

Agriscience Fair Individual or

PairApril 15 FFA.org Excel Print and Mail

American Degree Individual April 1 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

Chapter Cooperative Award Chapter April 15 FloridaFFA.org Excel Print and Mail

FFA Advisor of the Year Award Individual May 1 FloridaFFA.org PDF Print and Mail

Fresh From Florida Advocacy Award Chapter April 15 FloridaFFA.org Online Submit Online

Honorary State FFA Degree Individual May 1 FloridaFFA.org PDF Print and Mail

Outstanding Alumni Affiliate Award Chapter April 15 FFA.org Excel Print and Mail

Outstanding District Officer Award Individual April 15 FloridaFFA.org Online Submit Online

Premier Chapter Award Chapter May 15 FloridaFFA.org Online Submit with QCR

National Chapter Award Chapter April 15 FFA.org Excel Print and Mail

Proficiency Award Individual April 15 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

State FFA Degree Individual April 1 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

State Star Awards Individual April 1 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

Star Discovery Degree Award Individual April 1 FloridaFFA.org Excel Print and Mail

Star Greenhand Degree Award Individual April 1 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

Star Chapter Degree Award Individual April 1 MyFFA Online Print and Mail

AWARD APPLICATION SOURCES

AWARD OVERVIEWS

AGRISCIENCE FAIR Eligibility: Members grades sixth – 12thAccessed from FFA.org, Printed and MailedThe National FFA Agriscience Fair is a competition for FFA members who are interested in the science and technology of agriculture. It is held each year, during the State FFA Convention. Participation begins at the local chapter level and progresses to the state and national levels. Areas of participation closely mirror those of the international science fair, but reflect an agricultural theme.

AWARDSTop 3 category winners in each division receive rosettes awarded at the conclusion of the fair. First place Division winners receive a trophy on stage at the State FFA convention. Each participant who is selected and who accepts the invitation to participate at the National FFA Convention will receive at $200 travel award.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Application ■ Complete Research Report

ALUMNI ESSAY CONTESTEligibility: Members grades sixth – 11thThe Alumni Essay Contest recognizes outstanding FFA members from chapters with an active Alumni Affiliate. Award winners will receive scholarships to assist in attendance at either the Washington Conference or the Florida Leadership Adventures programs depending on their ranking.

AWARDS Top 10 applicants receive a scholarship to either the Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) or Florida Leadership Adventures (FLA). Scholarships are awarded on stage at the State FFA Convention.

AMERICAN FFA DEGREEEligibility: Refer to the National FFA ConstitutionAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and MailedFFA is structured into a degree program which rewards active FFA members for progress in all phases of leadership, skills and occupational development. The highest degree, the American FFA Degree, is conferred upon an elite group of members at the national level, which are approved by the state association.

AWARDS All recipients recognized on stage at the State and National FFA Conventions.


CHAPTER COOPERATIVE AWARDEligibility: Middle and High School ChaptersAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Printed and MailedThe Chapter Cooperative Award is made possible by the The Florida Council of Cooperatives and is designed to highlight the importance of cooperative business principles and practices. The contest is divided into two parts. Part One of the contest can be completed by the diligent work of any chapter who explores the need and resources of cooperatives, plans for cooperative activity and caries out a cooperative activity including, but not limited to visiting a local cooperative. A newly involved chapter may wish to begin with just the new portion of the contest, which is part one. In order to be considered for winning chapter must complete Part Two which involves documenting the chapter activities carried out concerning cooperatives, how chapter members made use of local cooperatives and any Cooperatives organized by chapter members.

AWARDS State winning chapter receives complimentary registration for four students and one advisor to attend the annual cooperative organization meeting. After attending, the winning chapter is also eligible for $500 cash. Awards given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

FFA ADVISOR OF THE YEAR AWARDEligibility: All Florida FFA AdvisorsAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Printed and MailedThe purpose of the FFA Advisor of the Year Award is to recognize agriculture educators who have made a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education in their local chapter.

FRESH FROM FLORIDA ADVOCACY AWARDEligibility: Middle and High School ChaptersAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Submitted OnlineThis program is designed to make today’s elementary students more aware of the world of agriculture and how it affects their daily lives. One of the primary objectives is to promote agricultural literacy among today’s students.

AWARDS Top five finalists each receive a plaque. In addition, the first place chapter receives $200, second place chapter receives $100 and the third place chapter receives $50. Awards are given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

HONORARY STATE FFA DEGREE NOMINATIONAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Printed and MailedThe Florida FFA Association relies on the support of exceptional individuals to provide life-changing experiences for its members. Each year, at the State FFA Convention, we honor those who have rendered outstanding service to agriculture or the agricultural education/FFA program with the Honorary State FFA Degree. Florida FFA will award up to 10 Honorary State FFA Degrees each year, along with five Distinguished Service Citations.

OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AFFILIATE AWARDEligibility: All Alumni ChaptersAccessed from FFA.org, Printed and MailedThe Outstanding Affiliate Award honors FFA Alumni Affiliates for outstanding accomplishments and contributions within their local chapters. The four finalist applications and the state winner’s applications will be sent on to National to be considered for the National Outstanding Alumni Affiliate.

AWARDS Top five affiliates receive a plaque. First place affiliate receives $200 and the advisor of the first place chapter receives $100. Second place affiliate receives $50 and the advisor of the second place chapter receives $50. The third place affiliate receives $50. Awards are given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

OUTSTANDING DISTRICT OFFICER AWARDEligibility: All District OfficersAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Submitted OnlineThe Ryan Rimmer Outstanding District Award recognizes the accomplishments of the state’s top district officer. The award application evaluates the district officer’s goals, plan of action, and the outcomes of their accomplishments during their year as a district officer.

AWARDS Finalists are recognized and the winner receives a plaque on stage at the State FFA Convention.

PREMIER CHAPTER AWARDEligibility: All ChaptersAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Submitted Online with Quality Chapter ReportTo be considered a premier chapter, Senior chapters are required to obtain the maximum amount of points in each category for a total of 260 points, as well as complete the additional Partnership Standard requirements. Junior and Middle school chapters are required to obtain 230 points and must also complete the Partnership Standard requirements to be considered a Premier Chapter.

AWARDS Premier Chapter Award recipients receive a plaque on stage at the State FFA Convention.

NATIONAL CHAPTER AWARD (FLORIDA’S FINEST)Eligibility: Middle and High School ChaptersAccessed from FFA.org, Printed and MailedThe National Chapter Award program is designed to award FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization. These chapters improve chapter operations using a Program of Activities (PoA) that emphasizes student, chapter and community development. Quality standards have been developed in each area as minimum requirements for recognition in the National Chapter Award program. The FFA mission and strategies should be used as a guide in planning, implementing and assessing accomplishments.

AWARDS Applicants selected as Florida’s Finest FFA Chapters each receive a plaque and a spur. Awards are given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

37AWARD PROGRAMS

PROFICIENCY AWARDSEligibility: Members grades sixth – 12th , and members who maintain active membership may apply the year following their high school graduationAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and MailedThe Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through their SAEs, have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Placement proficiency awards are given to those whose SAEs are related to employment, apprenticeships, or internships at an agribusiness or agriculture-related organization. Entrepreneurship proficiency awards are given to those whose SAEs are related to ownership of an agribusiness or agriculture-related organization. Please note that not all award areas are recognized at the state level. Recognized award areas are:

■ Agricultural Communications ■ Agricultural Education ■ Agricultural Mechanics - Design & Fabrication ■ Agricultural Mechanics - Repair & Maintenance ■ Agricultural Processing ■ Agricultural Sales ■ Agricultural Services ■ Agriscience Research ■ Beef Production - Entrepreneurship ■ Beef Production - Placement ■ Dairy Production ■ Diversified Agricultural Production ■ Diversified Crop Production ■ Diversified Horticulture ■ Diversified Livestock Production ■ Emerging Agricultural Technology ■ Environmental Science & Natural Res. Mgmt. ■ Equine Science - Entrepreneurship ■ Equine Science - Placement ■ Feeder Steer (State Level Only) ■ Feeder Swine (State Level Only) ■ Fiber and/or Oil Crop Production ■ Food Science & Technology ■ Forage Production ■ Forest Management & Products ■ Fruit and/or Vegetable Production ■ Home and/or Community Development ■ Landscape Management ■ Nursery Operations ■ Outdoor Recreation ■ Poultry Production ■ Sheep Production ■ Small Animal Production & Care ■ Specialty Animal Production ■ Specialty Crop Production ■ Swine Production ■ Turfgrass Management ■ Veterinary Science ■ Wildlife Management

AWARDS Each finalist receives a plaque. Winner receives an additional plaque and $200. The advisor of the winner receives $100. Awards are given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Award Application ■ Employer or Instructor’s Statement - The applicant’s most

recent employer or agriculture instructor should evaluate and

submit a maximum of one page report of the progress the student has made in developing the skills and competencies necessary for success in the particular area of this application.

■ Personal Page - Attach one page of additional information, of your choice, supporting your application for this area. (i.e., Newspaper clippings, additional statements from employer, student work, etc.)

STATE FFA DEGREEEligibility: Refer to the Florida FFA ConstitutionAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and Mailed The State FFA is the highest degree that the State FFA Association can bestow on a member. This degree is award annually at the State FFA Convention to those members who have met the minimum qualifications set forth by the National FFA Organization.

AWARDS All recipients recognized and receive a charm on stage at the State FFA Convention.

STATE STAR AWARDSEligibility: 12th grade members only** Members who received their State FFA Degree in a previous year may submit an updated State FFA Degree along with the Star Battery ApplicationAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and MailedThe Star Farmer, Agribusiness, Agriscience and Agricultural Placement Award represent the best of the best among hundreds of State FFA Degree recipients. Finalists for the awards have mastered skills in their Supervised Agricultural Experiences in the areas of production, finance, management and/or research.

AWARDS Finalists receive a $100 state award and a plaque. Winner receives an additional $200 state award, a $300 national award, a plaque and a trophy. Awards are given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Award Application ■ Complete Degree Application ■ SAE Agreements - Attach a copy of your most recent SAE

partnership, rental, Family Corporation or occupational training agreement

■ Recommendations Attach three one-page recommendations: Agriculture instructor recommendation, and two other recommendations (if your SAEs include placement, please include at least one employer recommendation).

SUBMITTING STATE DEGREES AND STAR APPLICATIONSIf you are submitting a state degree application as well as a state star application, you will need to submit two copies of your state degree application: one copy as your state degree submission and another copy with your state star application.


STAR DISCOVERY DEGREE AWARDEligibility: 8th grade members onlyAccessed from FloridaFFA.org, Printed and MailedThe Star Discovery Degree Award recognizes the state’s top Discovery Degree recipient based on the student’s Supervised Agricultural Experience program and other experiences related to FFA and Agricultural Education. All award types (Farmer, Agribusiness, Agriscience and Agricultural Placement) will compete together for this award.

AWARDS Finalists receive a $100 state award and a plaque. Winner receives an additional $200 state award, a plaque and a trophy. Awards given on stage at the State FFA Convention.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Award Application ■ Recommendations Attach three one-page recommendations:

Agriculture instructor recommendation, and two other recommendations (if your SAEs include placement, please include at least one employer recommendation).

STAR GREENHAND DEGREE AWARDEligibility: 10th grade members onlyAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and MailedThe Star Greenhand Degree Award recognizes the state’s top Greenhand Degree recipient based on the student’s Supervised Agricultural Experience program and other experiences related to FFA and Agricultural Education. All award types (Farmer, Agribusiness, Agriscience and Agricultural Placement) will compete together for this award.


SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Award Application ■ SAE Agreements - Attach a copy of your most recent SAE



STAR CHAPTER DEGREE AWARDEligibility: 11th grade members onlyAccessed from MyFFA, Printed and MailedThe Star Chapter Degree Award recognizes the state’s top Chapter Degree recipient based on the student’s Supervised Agricultural Experience program and other experiences related to FFA and Agricultural Education. All award types (Farmer, Agribusiness, Agriscience and Agricultural Placement) will compete together for this award.


SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ■ Complete Award Application ■ SAE Agreements - Attach a copy of your most recent SAE



39HONESTY AND INTEGRITY POLICY

Florida FFA expects students to be honest in all of their work, including work outside of the classroom related to Career Development Events (CDE) and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs. By participating in a competitive event, FFA members, advisors and proctors agree to adhere to high standards of academic honesty and integrity and understand that failure to comply with this pledge may result in disciplinary action, up to and including event disqualification, loss of Quality FFA Chapter Status and termination of active FFA membership.

As an integral component of school-based agricultural education, FFA is obligated to report cases of student, teacher, chaperone or proctor dishonesty to the school district.

All FFA members and advisors have an ethical obligation to adhere to the Honor Code and are required to abide by the following Academic Honesty Policies

I. By registering for or participating in any FFA event, FFA chapter representatives, including students and adults, agree to adhere to the following academic honesty code. FFA chapter representatives that do not agree to this policy should not register or participate. I understand that FFA expects its students and teachers to be honest in all of their work. I agree to adhere to this commitment to academic honesty and understand that my failure to comply with this commitment may result in disciplinary action, up to and including event disqualification, loss of Quality FFA Chapter Status and termination of active FFA membership.

II. The conduct set forth hereinafter constitutes a violation of the Academic Honesty Policies. Those adjudged to have committed such conduct shall be subject to discipline. Violations of the Honor Code and Policies include but are not limited to the following:

A. Cheating — The improper taking or tendering of any information or material which shall be used to determine academic or competitive credit. Examples include but are not limited to the following:

1. Copying from another student’s test or materials.2. Allowing another student to copy from a test or materials.3. Using unauthorized materials during a test, such as the

textbook, notebook, formula lists or notes, including those stored in a calculator or other electronic device.

4. Collaborating during an event or activity with any other person by giving or receiving information without authority.

5. Having another individual write or plan a paper, including those bought from research paper services.

B. Plagiarism — The attempt to represent the work of another, as it may relate to written or oral works, computer-based work, mode of creative expression, as the product of one’s own thought, whether the other’s work is published or unpublished, or simply the work of a fellow student or teacher.

When a student submits oral or written work that includes the words, ideas, or data of others, the source of that information must be acknowledged through complete, accurate, and specific references, and, if verbatim statements are included, through use of quotation marks as well. By placing one’s name on work submitted for credit, the student certifies the originality of all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgements. A student will avoid being charged with plagiarism if there is an acknowledgement of indebtedness. It is the FFA advisor’s responsibility to monitor and have an accurate understanding of the source of the students work.

Examples include:1. Quoting another person’s actual words.2. Using another person’s idea, opinion, or theory, even if it is

completely paraphrased in one’s own words.3. Drawing upon facts, statistics, or other illustrative materials

— unless the information is common knowledge.4. Failing to accurately document information or wording

obtained on the internet.5. Submitting anyone else’s work as one’s own work.6. Violating federal copyright laws, including unauthorized

duplication and/or distribution of copyrighted material.7. Offering, giving, receiving or soliciting of any materials,

items or services of value to gain competitive advantages for yourself or another.

C. Bribery - The offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting of any materials, items or services of value to gain academic advantage for yourself or another.

D. Misrepresentation - Any act or omission with intent to deceive

HONESTY AND INTEGRITY POLICY


an event official for competitive advantage. Misrepresentation includes lying to an event official or misstating the facts to increase your competitive standing.

E. Conspiracy - The planning or acting with one or more persons to commit any form of academic dishonesty to gain competitive advantage for yourself or another.

F. Fabrication - The use of invented or fabricated information, or the falsification of research or other findings with the intent to deceive for competitive advantage.

Examples include:1. Citing information not taken from the source indicated.2. Listing sources in a Works Cited or reference not used in

the academic exercise.3. Inventing data or source information for research or other

academic exercise.4. Submitting any academic exercise as one’s own prepared

totally or in part by another, including on-line sources.5. Taking a test for someone else or permitting someone else

to take a test for you.

G. Collusion – The act of working with another person on an competitive undertaking for which a student is individually responsible. Unless working together on an individual practicum has been prior approved, it is not allowed. On team practicums, students must stay within the guidelines set by the event coordinator. If the event coordinator provides additional guidelines, they must be followed. Failure to do so also constitutes a violation of these Policies and Rule.

H. Competitive Misconduct — The intentional violation of integrity by tampering with scores or taking part in obtaining or distributing any part of a test or practicum.

Examples include:1. Stealing, buying, downloading, or otherwise obtaining all or

part of a test and/or test answers without authorization.2. Asking or bribing any other person to obtain a test or any

information about a test.3. Changing, altering, or being an accessory to changing and/

or altering of an exam response or a grade recorded.4. Continuing to work on an examination or practicum after the

specified time has elapsed.

I. Improper Computer/Calculator UseExamples of improper computer and/or calculator use include but are not limited to:

1. Unauthorized access, modification, use, creation or destruction of calculator-stored or computer-stored data and programs.

2. Sharing a calculator or computer while leaving answers on display or in memory.

3. Submitting a duplicate printout with only the student’s or chapter’s name changed. This applies to all FFA events, awards and activities.

J. Improper Online Testing use includes:1. Having or providing unauthorized outside help when

completing online assessments.2. Obtaining access to confidential test materials or questions

before online assessments.3. Agriculture Teachers being in the room during online testing

and/or certification.

4. Proctors must not administer tests to their family members.5. Taking a test for someone else or permitting someone else

to take a test for you.

NOTE: A third-party designated proctor must administer all FFA related exams and certifications. Third-party proctor must have received notification of and agree to these policies and may be required to submit documentation certifying the integrity of the online exam process. A third-party proctor cannot be the agriculture teacher(s). Examples of acceptable third-party proctors include: school administrators, computer lab coordinators, media specialists, guidance counselors, testing coordinators, teachers not affiliated with the agriculture program, other non-instructional school or school district officials.

K. Disruptive Behavior - Each chapter representative’s behavior during an FFA event or activity is expected to contribute to a positive learning/teaching/competitive environment, respecting the rights of others and their opportunity to learn or participate. No chapter representative has the right to interfere with this process, including the posting of inappropriate materials on social media sites.

FFA event officials have the authority to ask a disruptive chapter representative to leave the event or activity and will report the incident as appropriate.

L. Electronic Devices - The use of cell phones or other electronic devices are not allowed during any FFA competitive event or activity, unless prior approval is given from the event coordinator.

41

YOUR INVESTMENT of money and time in your youth project animal is important. Don’t gamble against possibilities of death. Insure your youth project animal with the Florida Farm Bureau Insurance Companies. This special policy protects your animal against loss by death and loss by theft. This special policy also gives you full protection for your animal during transportation and exhibition.

Your policy can be written for six month or one year, whichever you prefer. Protection is available for youth project animals of FFA members.

THE COST for this valuable protection in low: Only 6% of the amount of insurance for a 1-year policy or a minimum of $20. The premium for a 6-month policy is only 5% of the amount of insurance applied for or minimum of $20.

NOW insure your youth project animal with Florida Farm Bureau. You will receive service from local agents and prompt claim payments. This policy provides special features to cover the increase in alue of your animal. The amount of insurance increases 10% per month for the first six months of the policy. Contact your Farm Bureau agent for more information.

EVERY FFA MEMBER who owns a youth project animal (beef, dairy, sheep, goats, swine), will want to purchase this valuable low cost insurance protection.

REMEMBER, your farm bureau insurance agent serves the Farm Bureau members with quality insurance protection.

“HELPING YOU IS WHAT WE DO BEST.”

FFA Project Club Insurance


Florida Farm Bureau’s industry certification program was developed as a result of a need within the agricultural industry. Florida Farm Bureau saw that agriculturists needed a trusted, reliable credential that could be used when hiring employees. As a result, industry-driven assessments of agricultural career fields have been developed in the form of industry certifications.

Each certification reflects a differing agricultural sector and the skills and competencies necessary for success in that field. The certifications were developed by agriculturists for agriculturists. Whether you’re an employer who’s looking for competent and educated employees or an individual looking to validate your knowledge and experience, Florida Farm Bureau’s industry certifications can help you achieve that.

Why are Industry Certifications Important?In addition to better preparing students for a successful career in agriculture, industry certifications are the central component of the implementation of the Florida Career and Professional Act, passed by the Florida legislature in 2007. The purpose of the act was to provide a statewide planning partnership between the business and education communities in order to attract, expand, and retain targeted, high-value industries and to sustain a strong, knowledge-based economy.

Additionally, industry certifications earned by secondary students are included in the high school and middle school grading formula, increasing their importance to school officials and administrators.

The certification is awarded to those persons passing the certification examination’s two-hour long assessment which includes all areas listed above. Assessments will be taken online and proctored by approved, third party individuals at your school.

Florida Farm Bureau Industry Certifications exams are designed for program completers and are written to measure a student’s performance based on the Florida standards and benchmarks for the respective program.

CURRENT CERTIFICATION EXAMS

Agritechnology 3.0The certification standards for the Agricultural Technician Certification Exam include the standards and benchmarks taught in the Agritechnology program at the secondary level. Certified individuals have a knowledge and skill set applicable to entry level positions in the agricultural industry. Test specifics include:

■ Agricultural safety ■ Environmental resource conservation and management ■ Plant growth and reproduction; including fertilization,

irrigation and pest control ■ Animal systems and livestock management; including health

and reproduction ■ Agricultural machinery and facility maintenance and

operations ■ Agribusiness marketing and finance concepts ■ Mathematics and physical science skills

Biotechnology 3.0 ■ General agricultural laboratory safety ■ Application and regulations for biotechnology ■ Laboratory skills, including: record maintenance, operating

procedures, DNA extraction, buffer preparation, etc. ■ Tissue and cell culture techniques ■ Biotechnological applications to agriculture, food and natural

resources ■ Genetic principles (inheritance, DNA, expression) ■ Scientific reasoning, mathematics and physical science skills

AVAILABLE SOON

Additional industry certifications are being developed and will be available no later than the 2015-2016 school year. The next certification exams include:

■ Agricultural Communications ■ Agricultural Mechanics ■ Animal Sciences

FLORIDA FARM BUREAUINDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS

43INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS

GENERAL INFORMATION

The registration and purchase process for the certification exam program has been changed in order to meet the needs of teachers, CTE directors and exam specialists across the state.

Teachers, CTE directors and proctors can now purchase exams with their AEST account. Rather than purchasing a certain number of exams allotted to a scheduled exam date, purchasers will load funds into a school’s account. These credits will be used when an exam is activated by the proctor and student on the day of the exam.

Additionally, to streamline the entire registrations and payment process, payments are now to be made to the Florida FFA Association, and credit cards are accepted online at the time of purchase or at a later date.

The latest build of the AEST exam platform now allows for teachers to create an account and view student scores. Only proctor accounts can activate exams. All proctors and teachers will need to create (or re-create) an AEST account beginning in 2015.

ProctorsCertification exams are proctored by registered and approved exam proctors. It is the responsibility of the teacher, administrator, or CTE director to arrange for a proctor. Step-by-step instructions are made available to the proctor prior to the exam date.

Agriculture teachers can not serve as proctors. Ideally, a proctor should be someone who is familiar with online testing and certification exams.

Proctors should be identified several weeks in advance to testing. Proctors are required to register for an AEST account. Information is provided to registered proctors that introduces the exam process and online testing platform.

Scores and CredentialsScores for each exam are available immediately after the entire test is complete and submitted. Student scores are also available to the Teacher and Proctor AEST accounts designated for that school.

Certificates and wallet-sized cards are mailed to the address each student identifies during the testing process.

Agriscience Fundamentals and Applications, 5th EditionL. DeVere BurtonISBN-10: 1435419669ISBN-13: 9781435419667

Leadership: Personal Development and Career Success, 3rd EditionJohn C. RickettsISBN-10: 1435492889ISBN-13: 9781435492882

Agriscience Fundamentals and Applications, 5th EditionL. DeVere BurtonISBN-10: 1435419669ISBN-13: 9781435419667

Leadership: Personal Development and Career Success, 3rd EditionJohn C. RickettsISBN-10: 1435492889ISBN-13: 9781435492882

Introduction to Biotechnology, 2nd EditionRay V. HerrenISBN-10: 1435498372ISBN-13: 9781435498372

PRIMARY REFERENCES

AGRITECHNOLOGY

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Additional references may be used for specific standards relating to Florida agriculture, safety, and other identified areas. These references will be listed on the FBEAST website.


Whether you’re an employer who’s looking for competent and educated employees or an individual looking to validate your knowledge and experience, Florida Farm Bureau’s industry certifications can help you achieve that.

FOR AGRICULTURALISTS, BY AGRICULTURALISTS.

BE THE PROFESSIONAL

NOW AVAILABLEAgritechnologyBiotechnology

COMING SOONAgricultural CommunicationsAgricultural MechanicsAnimal Sciences

FBAEST.com

45

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From the farm gate,to your license plate.The future of agriculture, there’s no better investment.

FLORIDA FFAA S S O C I A T I O N

FLORIDAFFA.ORG

FFA members are the innovators and leaders of tomorrow. Through agricultural education and hands-on learning, they prepare for the more than 300 career opportunities in the food, fiber, and natural resources industry.

Help ensure a bright future by purchasing an Agricultural Education and FFA license plate for your car, truck, or trailer.

THE FFA MISSIONFFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

THE AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION MISSIONAgricultural education prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource systems.

The Florida FFA Association is a resource and support organization that does not select, control, supervise or approve local chapter or individual member activities except as expressly provided for in the Florida FFA Constitution and Bylaws

Documents

2014-15 Florida FFA Guide