Rome High School FFA students are turning classroom learning into state and national success, earning major honors through the National FFA Organization while demonstrating how Rome High’s CTAE programs are moving the needle for students.
Rome High FFA was named a Two-Star National Chapter through the National FFA Chapter Award program and will be officially recognized this fall at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis.
Rome High students Iris McHaggee and Johannah Monson were also named national finalists in the Power, Structural and Technical Systems category of the National FFA Agriscience Fair. Their project, “Efficiency of 3D Printer Waste as Filter Media in 10-Gallon Aquariums,” earned them the opportunity to represent Rome High FFA on stage at the National FFA Convention.
Madylne Cruz-Hernandez also earned national recognition with a bronze rating in the Social Science category for her project, “Does High-Fat Cheese Consumption Reduce Rates of Dementia in Middle-Aged Adults?” Cruz-Hernandez previously earned first place at the Georgia State FFA Convention before advancing to the national competition.
Rome High School FFA Advisor Rachael Dunaway said she is proud of what all three students have accomplished and excited to see McHaggee and Monson represent Rome on the national stage this fall.
“I am incredibly proud of Madylne, Iris and Johannah and everything they have accomplished,” Dunaway said. “They have put so much hard work and dedication into their projects, and seeing that work recognized at the state and national levels is extremely rewarding. We are excited for Iris and Johannah to represent Rome High FFA at the National FFA Convention, and I know they will make all of us proud.”
Rome High School Principal Dr. Christy Epps said the national recognition reflects the commitment of the students and the opportunities available through the school’s CTAE programs.
“These students have taken what they are learning and applied it through research, problem-solving and competition at the highest level,” Dr. Epps said. “To have Rome High students recognized nationally and our FFA chapter earn this distinction is something our entire school can celebrate. We are extremely proud of Iris, Johannah and Madylne and the hard work they have put into reaching this level.”
The accomplishments add to a growing list of state and national recognition for Rome High School students participating in Career, Technical and Agricultural Education programs.
Superintendent Dr. Eric L. Holland said achievements like these demonstrate how CTAE is helping Rome City Schools move the needle by preparing students for opportunities well beyond the classroom.
“When we talk about moving the needle, this is exactly what we mean,” Dr. Holland said. “Our CTAE programs give students opportunities to take what they learn in the classroom and turn it into real-world experiences. These students are conducting research, solving problems and competing successfully at the national level. That speaks to their talent and dedication as well as the outstanding work being done by our teachers and CTAE staff.”
Rome High FFA will receive its Two-Star National Chapter recognition this fall in Indianapolis, where McHaggee and Monson will also represent Rome High School as national finalists in the Agriscience Fair.