Members of the Labette County FFA Chapter were among 44 teams competing in the National FFA Parliamentary Procedure Leadership Development Event (LDE), held during the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. This event is one of many educational experiences at the National Convention that allow students to apply the skills learned through agricultural education.
The team included Anna Cantrell, Jaci Falkenstien, Taylor Gudde, Sierra Hill, Alexis Spencer, and Pyper White, and was coached by Kyle Zwahlen.
The parliamentary procedure event is designed to help students gain the skills needed to participate effectively in business and organizational meetings while strengthening their leadership, research, problem-solving, and critical- thinking abilities. Participants learn to conduct efficient and orderly meetings, demonstrate a working knowledge of parliamentary law, present persuasive debates, evaluate minutes and organizational documents, and use parliamentary resources to address management and operational challenges.
Students who complete the event are eligible for membership in the American Institute of Parliamentarians. The competition consists of five phases: a written exam, a team presentation of parliamentary procedure, oral questions, a team problem-solving and critical-thinking practicum, and an individual practicum focused on minutes and records. Together, these phases provide a comprehensive assessment of participants’ parliamentary proficiency and prepare them for future leadership roles.
The Labette County team earned Gold Emblem Distinction overall, and in the Team Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Practicum, they were co-champions, earning a perfect score.
