La Grande FFA will return to FFA National Convention for the first time in 6 years
By Garrett Christensen on Friday, September 13th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE – Following a six-year hiatus, the La Grande FFA Chapter will officially participate in the 2024 National FFA Convention. According to Superintendent George Mendoza, the chapter organized a last-minute presentation to the school board on September 11, announcing their intentions to go, which was approved by the board.
As to why the chapter took such a long break from National Convention, Mendoza offered some insight, stating:
“So, part of it is COVID and not traveling as much during that time. Part of it is also that we’ve gone through four FFA, or four ag, teachers in the last six years as well. So there hasn’t been as much continuity or stability in that program.”
Things have changed in recent times, however. La Grande’s current agriculture teacher Luke Coomer, described by Mendoza as a “go-getter” has been helping to revitalize the chapter, and once again take La Grande FFA members to Indianapolis. As remarked by Mendoza:
“The kids are excited about doing stuff and Luke is excited about helping them make it happen. It’s been nice.”
The 97th National FFA convention begins October 23, 2024.
