When Madison High School students heard that agriculture courses were coming to campus this year, their first question was: “Does this mean we can start an FFA chapter?”
That enthusiasm was all it took for new agriculture teacher Annell Pronchnow to say yes. “It’s a student-led organization,” she said, “and I want them to take it as far as they want to go.”
Now, with more than twenty students already signed up and more joining after a recent parent meeting, the Madison/Butler Tech FFA Chapter is officially on its way to becoming chartered.
Chapter officers Lyla Comer (President), Alivia Comer (Vice President), Lanie Rawlins (Historian), and Hope Ritter (Secretary) were among the first to raise their hands when the opportunity arose. Each student brings a unique perspective and a shared excitement for what this means for their school and community.
“We’ve always heard about FFA at other schools,” Alivia said. “When we found out agriculture was coming to Madison, we hoped we’d finally get the same opportunity.”
The group looks forward to attending leadership events, meeting members from other local chapters, and beginning to host fundraisers and competitions. “We want to show everyone what FFA has to offer and keep growing each year,” said Lainie.
For Ms. Pronchnow, the excitement isn’t just about agriculture—it’s about the soft skills. “FFA builds leadership, communication, and responsibility,” she said. “Those are skills that serve students for life, whether they go into agriculture or any other career.”
That mission resonates with the students, who see FFA as a perfect fit for Madison’s rural roots. “This is such a good match for our community,” Lyla said. “We want to make the people who grew up here proud and show that agriculture can lead to so many different futures.”
The chapter is already seeing strong support from families and community members. An advisory board is forming to connect parents, local businesses, and alumni who want to help the chapter grow. Ms. Pronchnow welcomes anyone with agricultural experience or an FFA background to get involved. “We’ll need chaperones, mentors, and supporters to help us get off the ground,” she said.
As the first officers of the Madison FFA chapter, the students see themselves as laying the foundation for future generations. “It’s special to be part of the very beginning,” said Hope, a freshman. “We want to start something for the next group of students to build on.”
That spirit of pride and purpose is already taking root. The officers are eager to roll up their sleeves for service projects, competitions, and the ultimate FFA milestone—earning their own blue jackets. The group shared that the jackets symbolize everything FFA stands for: leadership, unity, and tradition, and they’re excited to represent Madison proudly. They’ve already started planning fundraisers to ensure that every member has the chance to wear one and feel that same sense of pride and belonging as part of something bigger than themselves.
If you are interested in being part of the Madison/Butler Tech FFA Advisory Board or would like to support the chapter in other ways, please email Annell.pronchnow@madisonmohawks.org