Reardan H.S. Reaches FFA Final Four!
Congratulations to the Reardan High School FFA Ag Issues team! After placing first in the state, four members of The National FFA Organization placed fourth in a national competition that took place at the FFA 97th National Convention and Expo from Oct. 23 to 26, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
For more on Washington State FFA Association student success this past week, visit
Pictured Above 10/26/24 — The Reardan H.S. student team consists of (left to right) seniors Bryson Flaa, Amelia Ray, and Aidan Chilson, a 2024 Reardan H.S. graduate. Team member, senior Rysen Soliday appears by phone as he had to return home to quarterback the Reardan football team.
This competition is one of the hopeful inspirations behind the WREN. Teams must choose and thoroughly research all sides of a contentious issue facing rural communities and present both sides to a variety of audiences. Scoring is based not only on the choice of topic and quality of presentation but on the team’s ability to handle tough questions.
WREN Board Secretary/Treasurer Rick Perleberg is justifiably proud of his students and shared this statement:
“These young men and woman had an incredible run. This week was the culmination of more than 13 months’ work to this end. I knew we had something special with these students early. Not only because they’re outstanding kids, but also because of the topic.
Mashing up the importance of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation with the exposure of a wildlife commission that many feel is headed the wrong direction was a great opportunity to create regional awareness about both pieces. Ultimately, that’s our goal- promote regional awareness about issues important to rural people and communities, all while telling a balanced story that represents all stakeholders’ truths. I think our current political higher ups could learn a thing or two from our approach, and more specifically, these studied students!
I love these kids and I couldn’t be prouder. Top 4 in the nation is a feat!”
Pictured above - Another great shot of the Reardan H.S. Agriculture Issues Forum Team.
A few weeks prior to the national competition, the team attended a public meeting of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Commission in Spokane. Rysen Soliday delivered a clear and well prepared statement based on the team’s research.