State Proficiencies and Degrees

Written By Caden Bernauer.

Moving into our winter season, one additional opportunity available to our chapter member, especially upperclassmen are State Proficiencies and Degrees.

Proficiencies - Iowa FFA Proficiency Awards recognize the real-world skills and growth students gain through their SAEs. With dozens of categories from livestock and mechanics to agribusiness, research, and communications there's a proficiency area for whatever your SAE is. These awards give members credit for the work they're already doing while helping build strong resumes for college, scholarships, and careers. Completing a proficiency also teaches valuable skills like goal setting, financial tracking, and reflection on personal progress. If you're already investing time in your SAE, consider turning that effort into recognition and opportunity by starting a proficiency this year.

Iowa State Degrees - The Iowa FFA Degree is the highest honor a student can earn from Iowa FFA reserved for members who show proven dedication in all three circles of agricultural education: classroom instruction, a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), and active participation in FFA. To qualify, you must have been an active FFA member for at least 2 years, completed two years of ag classes, and invested work or earnings into your SAE (for example, at least 375 hours of work or $1,500 of productive investment). In addition, applicants must meet certain standards, demonstrate leadership and service hours. Earning the Iowa FFA Degree doesn't just recognize what you've already done, it marks you as among the top 5% of FFA members statewide and reflects your commitment to agriculture, leadership, and service. If you are interested in either of these opportunities, please reach out to Mrs.Grantz or Skylar, because these applications take a lot of time and work, and they need to get you on track to achieve your goals.