“Doing to Learn” Is More Than Just a Motto

Jesus Nareja actively presenting to a classroom for Agriculture in the Classroom.

The National FFA Organization motto, “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve,” comes to life through the hands-on experiences members encounter every day. This year, the Grants FFA Chapter in New Mexico fully embodied “Doing to Learn” by participating in multiple Agriculture in the Classroom presentations throughout the community.

Grants FFA traveled to different schools within the area, teaching younger students why agriculture is so important in the present day. This year’s focus was on chile production and the basics of the plant life cycle, helping students better understand where their food comes from and the role agriculture plays in everyday life. Providing students with hands-on experiences through an educational game and bracelet making made learning interactive and memorable.

Throughout the year, the chapter completed multiple presentations, continuing a tradition it has participated in before. Its impact has become so meaningful that teachers requested them again for their classes this year. These invitations reflecte the positive influence that Grants FFA members have had on the students and educators.

This experience just hasn’t impacted the community; it created growth opportunities for participating members through planning visits, speaking in front of large groups and connecting with students of different ages. These members have learned audience connection, confidence, influence, empathy, active listening and more. Building these skills has influenced members in so many ways.

Each presentation challenges members to step outside of their comfort zones and become fantastic communicators and leaders. Many of them are more confident, outgoing and become more prominent and active in FFA. Whether its by explaining the life cycle of a plant, leading students through activities or answering questions, they’ve learned how to adapt, communicate clearly and work together. These skills can extend far beyond the classroom, and continue to benefit them in their further careers and leadership roles.

For the Grants FFA chapter, “Doing to Learn” is more than just a motto; it’s an experience. By teaching others about agriculture, members are not only strengthening their knowledge, but also discovering the value of leadership.

“Agriculture in the Classroom is an excellent program that provides the opportunity to educate younger students about agriculture, which I find genuinely rewarding,” says Jesus Najera. “I personally enjoy teaching students about agriculture. The initiative has also helped me boost my confidence, and has been fulfilling in enabling me to impart knowledge to children. I’m grateful to have this program.”

Being a great presenter isn’t just a talent you already have, but a collection of skills gained by experience. Through every presentation, Grants FFA members continue learning by doing and inspiring the next generation.