News

Illinois FFA charters first chapter for homeschooled students

The Illinois Association FFA has chartered the first chapter in the state for homeschooled students.

The Homefires FFA Chapter is open to homeschooled students in Section 18, covering Edgar and Vermillion Counties, who wish to expand their opportunities in agriculture.

Illinois FFA State Vice President Molly Schempp tells Brownfield this opens the door for homeschooled students to participate in career development events, leadership conferences and everything FFA has to offer.

“It’s the leadership and communication and friendships that you make, not only in your section, but across the state. You just create this network of people that is unlike any other organization.”

Schempp says this chapter is near and dear to her heart because she too was homeschooled from kindergarten through high school but attended half days at her local public school so she could be involved in FFA.

“That’s really what allowed me to further my agriculture education, take ahold of the FFA opportunities and still continue my homeschool studies.”

Schempp says she is excited for the future of the Homefires FFA Chapter and sees a need to establish more chapters for homeschooled students in other parts of the state.