In a world that often associates agriculture solely with farming, Centralia High School’s FFA chapter stands as a testament to how this organization welcomes everyone. For Teya Knox, Ressa Periman, and their advisor, Mehgan English, the FFA experience is about much more than crops and livestock—it’s about discovering community, confidence, and the courage to lead.

“I grew up without a farm background,” says Teya, a junior who’s been barrel racing for nearly eight years. “My family didn’t even have a pet bigger than five pounds. But FFA showed me that agriculture is so much more—it’s about leadership, sustainability, and understanding the systems that keep us all going.”

Teya’s passion for animals made her a natural fit for horse judging, where she recently placed in the top 5% at a regional competition. “It was incredible,” she says. “Being able to combine my love for horses with real-world competition has been one of my favorite parts of FFA.”

For Ressa, a senior and current chapter president, the journey into FFA came with some initial hesitation. “I wasn’t sure it was for me,” she admits. “But then I joined an ag class, and it just clicked. Now I can’t imagine my high school experience without it.”

Ressa’s leadership has been pivotal in the chapter’s growth. Alongside Teya, she helps teach agricultural lessons to younger students at Jordan School. “It’s so rewarding to see their eyes light up when they learn where their food actually comes from,” Ressa says.

Guiding these students is Mehgan English, who has spent two decades bringing agriculture to life for Centralia High School students. Her journey to becoming an FFA advisor wasn’t linear—she didn’t grow up in FFA herself, as her high school didn’t offer a program. But her deep love for 4-H and showing horses set the stage for a career in agricultural education.

“I always felt like I missed out on FFA growing up,” Mehgan reflects. “So when I became a teacher, I wanted to give my students the opportunities I didn’t have.”

In her classroom, Mehgan’s approach blends hands-on learning with heartfelt mentorship. Her students learn to rope using old equipment she keeps in her classroom and care for hydroponic plants that thrive under their watchful eyes.

“It’s about showing them the bigger picture of agriculture,” she says. “Where their food, clothing, and shelter come from, and how they can be a part of that story.”

While the chapter didn’t attend this year’s National FFA Convention due to funding challenges, Mehgan remains committed to creating unforgettable experiences for her students. “We’ll go back next year,” she says with a smile. “The sight of 65,000 blue corduroy jackets in one place is something you never forget.”

The impact of FFA extends beyond competitions and conventions. For Teya, it’s been a place to find her voice. For Ressa, it’s been a path to discovering her leadership potential. And for Mehgan, it’s a way to shape young lives and forge lifelong connections.

“I’ve even officiated weddings for former students,” Mehgan says, laughing. “It started as a joke, but it just shows how deep these relationships go.”

As the three reflect on their time with FFA, their stories converge on a single theme: the power of belonging. “FFA isn’t just for farmers,” Teya says. “It’s for anyone who wants to learn, grow, and make a difference.”

Under the guidance of Mehgan English and the leadership of students like Teya and Ressa, Centralia High School’s FFA chapter is cultivating a future where agriculture is as diverse and dynamic as the students who embrace it.