Forty-three students from seven Kansas high schools have been awarded the Kansas Agriculture Skills and Competencies Certificate by the Kansas Department of Agriculture. The schools include Buhler, Cheney, Ellsworth, Holton, Lyons, Mission Valley, and Republic County. To earn this certificate, students completed requirements in classroom instruction, supervised agricultural experience (SAE), and FFA. They demonstrated excellence in agricultural knowledge, career readiness, and leadership development while maintaining a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
“Students earning the Ag Skills and Competencies Certificate have truly taken steps to set themselves apart from their peers,” said Jason Larison, an agricultural education teacher at Holton High School. He emphasized that these students are among the most well-rounded graduates in Kansas for the class of 2025.
Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, KDA marketing director, highlighted the importance of skilled workers in agriculture: “As agriculture evolves with advancing technologies and practices, the demand for a skilled and knowledgeable workforce has never been greater.” She added that these students are equipped with essential training and leadership qualities needed for success in the industry.
The certificate has been endorsed by industry organizations and employers for over a decade. Applications are accepted each spring through agriculture.ks.gov/AgEducation.
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