GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Over the weekend of April 27th, Gridley FFA students attended the 91^st Annual California State FFA Leadership Conference, held in Anaheim California. There, Gridley high school FFA members competed in an array of categories showcasing their skills, some even placing. FFA member, Maddy Hamman, who competed in the Impromptu portion of the competition, secured a place as a finalist in that division.

Ty Cota, who has graduated from Gridley High and an active FFA member, common in the program, received the Proficiency Award in the area of Diversified Crop Production (placement). The Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Ty’s SAE takes place at Thykeson Farms in Eastern North Dakota where he helps oversee the daily operation of a multi grain production farm. Ty currently attends North Dakota State College of Science where he majors in Precision Ag. More than 6,500 students cheered as Ty accepted his award.

Also recognized at the conference was our very own Gridley Unified School District Superintendent Jordan Reeves. Superintendent Reeves was a state finalist for Star Administrator. The award recognizes High School Administrators, FFA Advisors, Teachers and other staff who provide outstanding service to the local FFA program, going above and beyond to provide opportunities for their students and chapters to grow and improve.

Gridley continued to represent the FFA program in outstanding fashion throughout the conference. FFA Advisor Matt Reed said, “We are proud of everyone here at Gridley High School” and their accomplishments in the FFA program.