It’s National FFA week across the country, and I feel it’s only fitting that we continue to bring both good and bad to light so we can all see what’s happening.

While FFA continues to be strong across the country and we see wonderful leaders being developed, there are a few nooks and crannies in rural America that need a little light. These are those school systems that have given FFA the axe and in doing so, have left potential leaders in the lurch.

Before another student hangs up their FFA coat prematurely, let’s shine another light in hopes of opening some eyes and changing some attitudes.

As we open the mailbag, we can read some reaction to the plea of a young FFA member in southern Michigan:

Dear Ms. Hart: Thank you for the enlightening facts in the article you wrote. I have read it twice, as it was in two papers we take. We do not take the Farmer’s Advance, but this was the Coldwater Reporter, and cannot recall the other one. I was pleased to see an e-mail address that I could respond to.

I grew up on a farm, many years ago; my deceased father would be absolutely so sad to see what has happened to our family farms. FFA has provided a means for the local youth to participate in activities that helped them develop so much. We have had outstanding students in our Bronson High School, as you no doubt know, going on to state and national awards.

Our teacher was one of the finest anywhere, but she has given it up, due to family was the reason; I am surely wondering the true reason with her fantastic success … the students loved her.
I am one of those that had the sign in our yard supporting the Bronson FFA; it has come to no avail. Their programs have dwindled and no doubt will all be transferred to the Branch County Intermediate School District Career Center in Coldwater.

This is fine, just to have them available, but they should be local. FFA has been in our school system since the 1930s; I went to high school here in Bronson and graduated in 1949 – telling my age! But we had a fine FFA program for the fellows at that time. Of course, it has changed and the young ladies now are very much involved, thank goodness.

I think I know the student who wrote you, hoping they can help our school system to see the importance of keeping this a local high school endeavor. Thank you for your part in making this available to the public. Appreciate all efforts to help in any way possible.
-Jeanne Unterkircher, Bronson, Mich.

Readers with questions or comments for Melissa Hart may write to her in care of this publication.