2025 fall school year written by Stockbridge FFA Reporter, Klayre Smith 

Stockbridge, MI — The Stockbridge FFA Chapter has enjoyed a busy and rewarding fall season filled with hands-on learning, leadership development, and community engagement. From raising animals and competing in statewide contests to environmental conservation and national travel, students have truly embodied the FFA motto: Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.

September 6 – A New Beginning: Welcoming Our Feeder Pigs
The fall season kicked off with the arrival of two feeder pigs—a Yorkshire and a Duroc—for the Animal Science classes. Students are gaining valuable experience in animal care, nutrition, and health management as they raise the pigs from weaned piglets to market-ready hogs.

September 18 – Apple Cider with Heritage Elementary
FFA and agriculture students in grades 7–12 partnered with Heritage Elementary’s 5th graders to make apple cider using six bushels of apples from the school orchard. This hands-on project connected students of all ages to the process of food production.

September 26–27 – Tractor Show Success
The annual Stockbridge FFA Tractor Show at American Legion Post 510 drew a great turnout and beautiful weather! With more than 60 tractors, a steam engine, toy show, contests, and live music, the event celebrated agricultural heritage and community pride.

Early October – Beckwith Nature Preserve Project
Members practiced environmental stewardship by removing invasive species and learning about conservation methods from preserve staff as part of the #SpeakAgMichigan contest. Students saw firsthand how local preservation efforts benefit the environment and community.

October 8 – Michigan FFA Careers Conference
Four members of Stockbridge represented the district at the state Careers Conference in Lansing, exploring agriculture and natural resource careers while attending leadership and skill-building sessions.

October 8–31 – Light Pole Decorating Contest
FFA students joined the Panther Cub PTO’s annual decorating contest, spreading creativity and community cheer. Though not the design winner, FFA was chosen as the recipient of the first-place charity donation—$138 from the G.U. Crew of Howard Hanna Real Estate—to help the chapter adopt a family for Christmas.

October 22 – First Place Finish in Michigan FFA Broiler Contest
Stockbridge FFA 1st place statewide in the Broiler Contest after weeks of raising, managing, and presenting market-ready chickens. Students demonstrated skills in animal care, record keeping, and ethical agricultural practices.

October 29–30 – 98th National FFA Convention
Stockbridge members joined over a million FFA participants nationwide at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. Students attended sessions, met agricultural leaders, and were inspired to continue making an impact in their communities and beyond.

A Season to Remember

Through leadership, learning, and service, Stockbridge FFA continues to strengthen its commitment to agricultural education and community involvement. This fall’s activities not only enriched students’ knowledge but also built lasting connections across the community.

About Stockbridge FFA
Stockbridge FFA is dedicated to preparing students for careers in agriculture, leadership, and service through hands-on learning, competitions, and community engagement. The chapter is part of the Michigan FFA Association and the National FFA Organization, which serves more than 950,000 members nationwide. To follow our adventures, follow us on our Facebook page, Stockbridge FFA!