By Ben Cox
Photos/Special to The Source
Routt Catholic High School marked a historic milestone with the establishment of its first-ever FFA chapter, officially chartered during a ceremony held Wednesday, Dec. 3.
The event formalized months of planning and set the foundation for a new era of agricultural education at the school.
The chartering comes as Routt expands its curriculum to include a strengthened agriculture program, now led by newly hired agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor, Allison Wheeler.
Wheeler, who joined the faculty this school year, teaches ‘Introduction to Agriculture,’ ‘Agricultural Science’ and ‘Ag Business.’ School officials say her experience and enthusiasm were instrumental in laying the groundwork for the new chapter.
During Wednesday’s ceremony, the chapter’s inaugural officers were installed. Avery Lowery will serve as the first president of the RCHS FFA Chapter, with Grace Cleveland as vice president, Madalyn
Wisdom as secretary, Keagan Lawson as treasurer and Easton Harris as sentinel. Quinn Johnson was introduced as a chapter member.
RCHS Principal Danielle Evans said the new FFA chapter will bring lasting value to students by providing hands-on opportunities in leadership, service and career development.
“FFA provides our students with invaluable skills in communication, leadership and teamwork,” Evans said. “Through this program our students will gain access to career and leadership activities. We are very fortunate to be able to provide this opportunity at Routt. We are grateful that Mrs. Allison Wheeler is here to provide agriculture education and inspire our next generation of leaders.”
The school echoed these sentiments in a statement shared on its Facebook page on December 5, calling the ceremony “a truly monumental evening,” and emphasizing the dedication and collaboration that led to the charter. The post noted how the accomplishment “opens the door to countless opportunities for our students in leadership, service, and agricultural education.”
Illinois Association FFA Secretary Kyle Bradshaw, of Pittsfield, gives remarks at the RCHS FAA charter ceremony.
Routt also welcomed Illinois Association FFA Secretary Kyle Bradshaw, of Pittsfield, who attended the ceremony and offered remarks to commemorate the school’s entry into the statewide organization. School leaders said his participation underscored the importance of the moment and the broader support network now available to the chapter.
The establishment of the FFA chapter marks a significant step forward not only for Routt students interested in agricultural pathways, but also for the school’s mission to broaden academic pathways and real-world learning experiences.
With its charter secured, Routt Catholic High School looks ahead to building new traditions, engaging in regional and state FFA activities and integrating more agricultural programming into student life.
Administrators say they are eager to watch the chapter grow and anticipate a strong future for student members as they explore careers in agriculture and leadership.
For more information about Routt Catholic High School’s agricultural education offerings or its new FFA chapter, contact the school office at 217-245-8563 or email mpeterson@routtcatholic.com.
