It is safe to say that this school year has been met with a variety of different barriers. Whether that involves the galling attempts of rejoining a zoom call due to internet issues, or the rescheduling of numerous events, COVID-19 has made substantial impacts on various daily routines. One of which includes the FFA team, and the significant changes COVID has made to their schedule, including practices and competitions. 

Both CDE and LDE competitions ー CDE (Career Development Events) which consist of competitive events that mirror real-world skills and LDE (Leadership Development Events) that promote leadership development ー are done virtually. Other events such as fall leadership, greenhand camp, and the state convention have also been carried out via zoom. The numerous changes affect how their practices are run as well. Only recently have they been allowed to hold in-person meetings, which are held in the auditorium for social-distancing purposes. But alas, due to the increase in COVID cases and the pause on after-school activities, FFA is currently back to holding meetings online. Fortunately, earlier in the year, they were still able to partake in fundraising through their annual fruit sale, with the exception of hosting a fruit pickup for buyers instead of going door to door and delivering the delicious produce. 

Regarding the usual animal and livestock evaluation, the virtual experience does not foster the same emotions as it would in person. “Horse judging is nowhere near the experience that it is normally. Usually, we get to see movement and the horses in person. This year it is all based on maybe four pictures of each horse to make your decision,” reporter Megan Wichser stated. Additionally, events in person encouraged individuals to seek out discussions with members of other schools, a tradition that has changed during the pandemic. “Typically we get to meet people from other chapters that become lifelong friends. We can’t this year, which is truly a bummer, especially for seniors,” Wischer reflected in regards to the change in social opportunity. 

On account of unfortunate circumstances concerning the virus, several after-school activities have had to adapt in different ways, especially FFA. Hopefully, next year will bring a change for the better, so practices and competitions can be run as usual.