ROCHELLE — Entrepreneurship, recreation, and public speaking are just some of the competitions that members of the Rochelle FFA have recently participated in.
Donna Page, FFA Advisor and Ag Teacher at Rochelle Township High School, said several students advanced to the state level.
Three members who competed at the State FFA Proficiency Awards on March 24 include Amanda Headon in Equine Science Entrepreneurship, Abby Wagner in Outdoor Recreation, and Claire Plapp in Dairy Production.
Competing last week at the district level were Wagner in prepared public speaking and Eliza Petry in extemporaneous public speaking. Both placed first at the sectional competition.

“The girls did well at the competitions…neither placed in the top two but definitely represented RTHS and Rochelle FFA well,” Page said. “I’m always impressed at the poise and confidence that my students have when presenting at public speaking events.”
Adding, “For some students public speaking is a nightmarish task and I’m always astonished at the talent and passion that my students put in to preparing and presenting their speeches.”
Page said this week the Parliamentary Procedure team will represent Rochelle at the district level competition, after achieving first place in sectionals. Those participating include:  Wagner, first place, chairman; Eric Sanders, first place, secretary, Kylee Sanderson, first place, floor member; Petry, second place, floor member; Sanders, third place, floor member; and Donnie Harmon, fourth place, floor member. Josh Harmon rounded out the team.
FFA members participate in several fields and go on to pursue a wide range of careers including food, fiber, and natural resources along with teachers, doctors, scientists, and entrepreneurs.
Ag Day
On Friday, April 20, Ag Day will be returning to RTHS from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The event is open to the public and will include a toy display, petting zoo, tractors, and a sheep shearer.