Alderson Punches Ticket to National FFA Competition
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Launch the media gallery 1 playerStudents from across the state were awarded Proficiency Awards at the 96th annual
Nebraska FFA State Convention held April 3-5. The Proficiency Awards program
encourages members to set personal goals and learn practical skills. The program
provides recognition to FFA members for exceptional accomplishments and excellence
in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) programs.
The Supervised Agricultural Experience program is an individualized application of
classroom learning beyond scheduled class time and has been a standard part of
agricultural education since 1917. Students’ SAEs may be entrepreneurial enterprises,
employment experiences, or research projects. Student’s applications won district
competitions before being considered by the state-selected committee in February.
In the area of Agricultural Education, Matthew Alderson, the son of Curtis Alderson and
Jill Heemstra of Osmond, took home the top prize and will be representing the state of
Nebraska in the National competition in October. Matthew’s SAE project includes
teaching students in Kindergarten through sixth grade about agricultural technology and
animal sciences. He uses public speaking and critical thinking skills to design and
present workshops. Matthew’s FFA Advisor is Jessica Evans. Rounding out the top
three places in this event were Kaylei Denison from Waverly receiving second and Cole
Brandes of Central City received third place.
In the area of Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance - Placement, Matthew
Alderson of Osmond was runner-up to Shelby Perchal of West Point. Shelby is the
daughter of Kelly Perchal and Josh and Kara Perchal. Shelby’s Ag Mechanics
placement skills include routine farm equipment maintenance, maintaining a pulling
tractor, and rebuilding engines, turbos, and clutches. Her FFA Advisor is Lee Schroeder.
Rounding out the top three was Grant Kaup of Stuart in third place.
Congratulations to all FFA proficiency finalists and best of luck to the winners as they
prepare for the National Competition.