SANTA MARIA, Calif. – The Pioneer Valley High School FFA was honored with multiple awards.
The Santa Barbara FFA chapter named the group Chapter of the Year.
The Santa Maria Joint Union High School District says the Pioneer Valley FFA was also ranked the second best agriculture department in California at the Chapter Officers Leadership Conference, or COLC.
“This was the first time I attended COLC and it was a great experience. I got to meet so many new people and strengthened my bond with my own team, ”said Luis Hernández, a Pioneer Valley student.
Part of the conference was devoted to working on leadership skills and networking with other students from across the region.
“I know I speak for everyone when I say that by hearing Pioneer Valley named as the Chapter of the Year section at COLC, as well as being announced as 2North Dakota in the state has brought the biggest smiles and tears of happiness to our faces. That feeling I had while on stage and taking care of our team is one that I will remember for a lifetime. With determination, the members made this possible and we will continue to show why Pioneer Valley is the best at what we do, ”said Chapter President Gillian Villa.
Students say they are bringing new ideas from the conference to Pioneer Valley FFA.
“This was the first in-person conference our FFA leaders have had the opportunity to attend since we transitioned back to school in regular person this year,” said Ag and FFA teacher Marcie Guerra.
Pioneer Valley FFA leaders say they hope to have in-person events again after being away due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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