North Decatur celebrates FFA Week with numerous activities

Article submitted by North Decatur FFA Advisor Katie Morman

(GREENSBURG, Ind.) – Despite the rough start to National FFA Week due to unpredictable weather, the North Decatur FFA chapter made sure the spirit of the week was alive and well with fun activities, heartfelt celebrations, and community involvement. The week, which aims to honor the values of agriculture, leadership, and service, kicked off with some unexpected changes but still managed to deliver a memorable experience for everyone involved. 

On Monday, hazardous weather led to an e-learning day, which caused the postponement of planned events like the popular tractor drive in. Students, who usually drive their tractors to school to kick off the week, had to forgo this tradition for safety reasons. However, the FFA officers and members quickly adapted, and the activities were pushed to the following days. Advisors hope to offer a tractor day in the spring in hopes for better weather. 

Tuesday came with a two-hour delay, but that didn't stop the FFA officer team from showing appreciation for the NDHS staff. An appreciation lunch was held where sub sandwiches, soups, and cookies were served to faculty and staff as a token of gratitude for their support. Despite the weather challenges, the FFA chapter kept its commitment to honoring those who make a difference in the lives of students. 

The remainder of the week was filled with excitement, and as the weather cleared, the North Decatur FFA chapter wasted no time making up for lost time. One of the standout events was the annual petting zoo, which brought joy to NDES students.

The petting zoo featured a variety of animals, including goats, beef cattle, horses, pigs, and even an alpaca! A special guest, Mayor Marsh, made an appearance at the zoo and presented the officer team with the official 2025 National FFA Week Proclamation, further solidifying the significance of the week for the entire community. 

In addition to the petting zoo, FFA members took part in a community service project during SRT, where they prepared 100 gift bags for FFA alumni members to be distributed. The gift bags are available at the NDHS main office for any alumni while supplies last. This initiative allowed students to give back to those who have supported the organization over the years. Once an FFA member, always an FFA member. 

On Friday, students participated in the highly anticipated FFA Barnyard Olympics. This fun and competitive event saw students and faculty members take part in a series of farm-themed challenges. Throughout the week, students also had the opportunity to dress up, find a hidden stuffed farm animal around the building, answer trivia questions, and raise money for the Greensburg Bread of Life, a local charity. The teacher who raised the most money in their bucket after lunch on Friday was "rewarded" with a pie in the face during the Barnyard Olympics by the winning grade of the olympics, which ended the week on a hilarious note. 

National FFA Week may have faced some early setbacks, but the North Decatur FFA chapter rose to the challenge and created a week filled with fun, learning, and service. As the week comes to a close, members of the community are reminded of the values FFA stands for – leadership, agriculture, and community – and the lasting impact these principles have on students and the people around them. 

The North Decatur FFA chapter is already looking forward to next year’s National FFA Week celebrations, and we can only hope mother nature will be more cooperative next time!