Guiding the Next Generation in Illinois FFA Section 19
The Work Behind Student Success
Across Illinois FFA Section 19, agriculture educators play an important role in shaping the future of agriculture and the students who will one day lead it. Across the 13 chapters that make up Section 19, these teachers support their students in ways that often go unnoticed, but leave a lasting impact.
While students are often recognized at competitions, conventions and leadership events, much of their success begins behind the scenes. Agriculture educators spend countless hours preparing lessons, coaching teams, organizing activities and encouraging students who may not yet realize their own potential. Their influence extends far beyond the agriculture classroom, and often becomes the reason students gain confidence in themselves.
Believing in Student Potential
Ramsey FFA member Kelli Cook shared, “Mr. Thurnau knows my potential and pushes me to be the best I can be. He took time to learn who I am as a person, understands what I’m capable of and holds me to that.”
For many students, having a teacher who believes in them becomes the motivation to step outside of their comfort zone and pursue opportunities they never imagined for themselves.
In Greenville FFA, agricultural educator and advisor Mrs. Cripe has become that source of encouragement for many students. Greenville FFA member Bentlie Siebert shared, “Mrs. Cripe pushed me to try things I never would’ve done on my own, and I’ve become a better person because of it. Beyond the classroom, she constantly supports and guides students to become better people for our community.”
Through her leadership and support, students are encouraged not only to succeed in FFA, but also to grow as individuals and leaders.
A Lasting Impact
That same impact can be seen in Pana FFA. Member Hailiejo O’Rourke shared, “Mrs. Ruppert and Mrs. Perry always believed in me, even when I didn’t fully believe in myself. They encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone, and their support gave me confidence in myself and the opportunities I was capable of pursuing.”
Stories like these show how agriculture educators help students discover strengths they may not have recognized on their own.
In Illinois FFA Section 19, agriculture educators are more than teachers. They are mentors, role models and leaders who invest in students long before others recognize their success. Through their encouragement, patience and dedication, they continue to guide the next generation of agricultural leaders and help students realize what they are truly capable of becoming. For many students, that change starts with a teacher who simply chose to believe in them.
