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Illinois FFA officers virtually engage with ag students during COVID-19 pandemic
The Illinois state FFA officer team has created a plan to educate and engage ag students and FFA members during school closures from the coronavirus outbreak.
State Treasurer Emma Freebarin tells Brownfield the goals of “Operation Rising Sun”.
“A lot of people don’t have very much else to do, so being able to spread the message of FFA and agriculture education and positivity in this time- that has become our main mission.”
Reporter Brodee McCormick says they are connecting with students through videos and competitive quizzes on social media since events have been canceled.
“Every morning around 9am you will find our Illinois FFA daily news posted. We will have live Kahoot’s (competitive online trivia quizzes) at 1pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. We will also be posting retiring addresses from past state officer teams and more.”
Secretary Collin White says the idea was inspired by the symbol of the rising sun on the FFA emblem.
“The rising sun is the token of a new era in agriculture. Not only looking forward from the darkness we are in now but looking forward at what the future can be.”
Vice President Lane Harvey says this is something they want to share across the nation.
“It is hopefully something other states can make, post their own, and use this content to advance their members as well.”
President Gage Millers says they are hoping to make the best out of a devastating situation and brighten someone’s day.
“Because it seems like when you are on social media all you see is the negatives when really we need to be looking at what is ahead and how we can make the most of the situation.”
Daily posts from the team can be found on the Illinois Association FFA Facebook page.
Interview with Illinois FFA Major State Officer Team