1. Bring Your Administrator to the National FFA Convention MAELC Presentation June 25, 2009

2. What do the Indy 500 and National FFA Convention have in common? Largest single day sporting event in the world Largest youth gathering in the world

3. 82 nd National FFA Convention October 21-24, 2009 Indianapolis, Indiana Over 53,000 students, advisors, and guests attend (and we hope some administrators!)

4. Purpose Provide funds to FFA Chapters and Alumni affiliates to send a school administrator to the National FFA Convention

5. Population Served Any FFA Chapter with an Alumni affiliate desiring to bring a school administrator to the convention

6. Objective To strengthen the FFA and alumni programs within Minnesota by enlightening the administrator to the opportunities FFA has to offer

7. Testimonial “In October of 2008 I had the privilege of attending the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. Several of our students were in attendance and some of them were competing. What a fantastic experience! Attending really helped me grasp the scope and power of FFA. The general sessions were led by incredible young people and the various competitions were extremely interesting. I returned home with a much greater understanding of FFA and the dedication, desire, and talents that successful FFA competitors possess.” -Jeff Powers, Superintendent, Dassel-Cokato Public Schools

8. Testimonial “One of the highlights of my professional career at Dassel-Cokato High School, was the opportunity to attend the FFA National convention. I was amazed by the talent and leadership abilities displayed by the high school age students competing in the various events. I think every high school administrator should have the opportunity and should take advantage of attending this quality convention lead by these outstanding students. It gives renewed confirmation of the educational value of leadership development through activities sponsored by local, state and national FFA events.” -Paul Thomas, former Principal, Dassel-Cokato High School

9. Why is this Important? Strengthens the bond between administration and the Agricultural Education department Shows all the opportunities FFA has to offer Shows uniqueness that no other department in the school can deliver Gives the Administrator an opportunity to bond informally with students. Provides for the opportunity for the administrator to be an ambassador for agriculture

10. How will this help our Population? Many districts are looking for ways to reduce or cut spending Agricultural Education departments are being considered for cuts Any opportunity to “sell” FFA and Agricultural Education will lessen the chance of being on the chopping block Will help with student enrollment and course selection as principals or counselors steer students into Agricultural Education classes

11. Budget $2,5005 scholarships @ $500 $ 500 Matched by MN FFA Alumni Association $ 500 Matched by local district or FFA chapter $ 500 Dedicated to administrator to report to professional organization (such as the Minnesota School Board Convention)

12. Long Range Opportunities The Minnesota FFA Alumni is hoping that with success of the grant, we could secure Minnesota FFA Foundation Star Partner dollars to fund a similar program in future years.

13. What questions are there?

14. Thank You! See you in Indy