By Scout Nelson
Twenty-one students from five high schools in Kansas have been awarded the Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificate by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The participating schools include Buhler, Herington, Holton, Lyons, and Skyline High Schools. This certificate recognizes students who have shown excellence in agricultural education and leadership.
To earn this certificate, students must complete specific requirements. These include classroom learning, participation in supervised agricultural experience programs, and active involvement in FFA activities. Students must also maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.5. These conditions ensure that students develop both academic knowledge and practical experience.
“Students earning the 2026 KDA Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificate represent the best of Kansas agricultural programs. Their achievement reflects years of dedication, leadership, and involvement in agricultural education and FFA activities. These students are well prepared for college, careers, and future success,” said John Clark, the agricultural education teacher at Buhler High School.
“These students are developing the technical skills, work ethics and leadership experience that will strengthen Kansas agriculture,” said Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, KDA marketing director. “No matter what sector of agriculture they pursue careers in, they are helping build the next generation of Kansas’ workforce and ensuring our state remains a leader in agriculture.”
The certificate program has been supported by industry organizations and employers for more than ten years. Applications are accepted every spring. More information is available here.
Students who received the certificates include:
- From Buhler High School: Alexis Andrew, Taylor Beals, Khloe Blackwell, Ty Campbell, Reuban Harder, Emily Hare, Emma Hays, Kiley Holmquist, Cooper Jones, Jenna Lackey, Mekenna Mendenhall, Tucker Schlatter, Grayson Smith, and Gage Warkentin.
- From Herington High School: Colten Gehrk, Henry Nelson, and Ethan Urbanek.
- From Holton High School: Mara Marten and Dalton Peters.
- From Lyons High School: Kennedy Grizzle.
- From Skyline High School: Trystan Harrold.
These students have demonstrated strong knowledge, leadership, and dedication, helping build a brighter future for agriculture in Kansas.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-brzozowska
Categories: Kansas, Education, General