Students participate in the Ag LEO program.
This school year, Manheim FFA senior member Nate Huber introduced an exciting new program called Ag LEO, short for “Learning Experience Opportunities.” The initiative is the first of its kind for the Pennsylvania chapter, offering a student-led class designed for middle schoolers interested in agriculture and FFA.
“The Manheim Central Middle School Agriculture LEO (club) has a great benefit for the students who choose to join in learning more about the wide world of agriculture,” Huber said. “Specifically, students researched their dream careers and tied them back to agriculture, and all of the careers turned out to be related. This taught students how connected agriculture is to their everyday lives … Based off the feedback I heard from students, it was an enjoyable experience for students of all backgrounds and experience levels.”
Eighteen students from grades six through eight signed up to participate, eager to explore what FFA has to offer. Each week, the middle schoolers met with Nate and members of the FFA officer team, who took turns leading activities and lessons. The sessions focused on teamwork, leadership, and agricultural education through hands-on learning experiences.
Senior and sentinel Jaliyah Ebersole helped with the program and finds it to be extremely beneficial. “I have loved getting to help with the Ag LEO because it has given me a chance to lead the younger students, get to know them, and help them discover ag and FFA,” said Ebersole
Throughout the program, students participated in a variety of engaging activities. They kicked off with icebreaker games to get to know one another, followed by FFA-themed projects and discussions about agricultural careers. One of their main projects involved researching and designing a trifold board for the Pennsylvania Farm Show, which showcased their newfound knowledge and creativity.
In addition to building the display, the group learned the basics of FFA, including its mission, traditions, and leadership opportunities. They also listened to the retiring addresses of former Pennsylvania State FFA Officers, who shared personal stories about their experiences in agriculture. These inspiring messages motivated many students to consider continuing their involvement in FFA throughout high school.
As part of the Ag LEO program, participants were also given the opportunity to earn their Discovery Degree, the first level of FFA membership recognition available to middle school students. This experience helped them build confidence and a sense of accomplishment as they worked toward achieving a meaningful goal.
By the end of the semester, the Ag LEO participants had not only learned about agriculture but had also gained important teamwork and leadership skills. Their trifold display at the Farm Show stood as a testament to their hard work and growth.
The success of this first Ag LEO class has set the stage for future programs, with hopes that it becomes an annual tradition. As Huber and the officer team look ahead, they plan to expand activities and involve even more students, continuing to cultivate a love for agriculture in the next generation.
