FFA chapter wins third in state contest

The Flathead FFA Chapter veterinary science team placed third in the state after competing in the newest Career Development Event.

The team of students in grades nine through 12 includes Destiny Brewer, Kaestra Gorder, Sarah Petersen, Darian Enders, Taryn Butts, Krystal Sutton, Cassidy Wiley, Caroline Keller, SharDay Hilliard, Kaylee Wilson and Jayde Nail.

The team was coached by agricultural education teacher Brian Bay.

Students competing in the Veterinary Science Career Development Event have learned skills and knowledge they will need to pursue veterinary medicine in a post-secondary program, according to Bay.

“This is a highly academic course offering that is grounded in hands-on, practical techniques and surgical procedures,” Bay said.

The 11-member team practiced two to three times a week for several months for the March 10 competition.

During the year, students learned a variety of skills ranging from identifying tools and livestock to administering injections, practicing animal restraint techniques, managing a clinic and role playing.

Bay said preceding the competition students participated in a seminar by the Missoula Agriculture Education program to learn the latest best practices in veterinary medicine.

“I am very excited about the skills that are being refined within our Agricultural Education student body,” Bay said.