The chapter received its most recent Gold Emblem while participating in the national competition in Indianapolis.
“Out of 7,500 chapters, Bradley was one of the top 30 chapters in the nation,” BCHS FFA President Blake Fowler said.
Fowler said he thought the team did a great job representing its school, and its county.
“We didn’t win, but I think it was a great opportunity to represent what Bradley County Schools has to offer, ” Fowler said.
The BCHS FFA was recognized for its achievements during a recent Bradley County Board of Education meeting. In addition to Fowler, sentinal Cody Shelton, Vice President Travis Duke, member Bo Ellis and adviser Lu Ann Carey were also present at the meeting.
The school can also claim another high honor in the organization.
“This year they topped their performance by qualifying for Model of Innovation,” Arlette Robinson, supervisor for the Career and Technical Department , said.
Robinson said the Bradley FFA was invited to compete for the Model of Innovation award because of the chapter’s recycling efforts.
“We were in the top 10 in the nation for community service,” Carey said in a phone interview.
Ellis and Fowler presented information about the clubs activities to the judges at the national competition. The FFA members do projects with the local elementary school, community gardens and Cleveland/ Bradley Keep America beautiful throughout the year.
“Both of our high schools have very strong career tech programs,” Director of Schools Johnny McDaniel said during the meeting.
To be eligible to receive the Gold Emblem a chapter must complete an activity for each of the 15 quality standards.
According to the National FFA website, these include Student Development in Leadership, Healthy Lifestyles, Career Success, Scholarship and Personal Growth; chapter development in Chapter Recruitment, Finance, Public Relations, Cooperation and Support Group; as well as Community Development in Economic Development, Environment, Human Resources, Citizenship and Agriculture Promotion.
