Sioux Falls CTE agriculture teacher, students highlight rapid FFA growth and new barn addition

Kimmy Martin, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at the CTE Academy, told the Sioux Falls School District 49‑5 board that the district’s FFA chapter had its highest number of active members to date and that a new facility addition will be a "major upgrade" to support continued growth.

"I'm incredibly grateful to have had a voice in planning in planning process for our new addition. This space is a major upgrade from what we currently have, and it will help us better serve our students and the broader Sioux Falls community," Martin said. She introduced two students from Lincoln High School, Izzy Hoffman, a sophomore, and Summer Schmaltz, a junior, who described how the program built their skills and confidence.

Martin provided numeric highlights: the FFA roster stood at 18 active members, the class took nine field trips, hosted 10 guest speakers, and participated in 12 FFA events this year. She said nine pigs were born in the classroom lab, the program found homes for one cat and five kittens, two students earned state FFA degrees and one student was named a state star finalist. Martin thanked the department sponsor, CHS, saying the program could not operate without that support.

Student speakers credited the program with growth in public speaking, leadership and networking. Izzy Hoffman said the program "was a really good way to meet new people" and noted opportunities to compete and interact with students from across the state. Summer Schmaltz said FFA "has really brought me out of my shell" and credited Martin for helping her develop speaking skills.

Superintendent Dr. Knowles and board members praised the program’s progress and the new facilities planned at the CTE Academy. Board members encouraged continued outreach so community members become aware of opportunities in the district’s career and technical education offerings.

The presentation concluded before the board moved on to routine business.