Damascus Middle School

The Damascus Middle School FFA chapter had an eventful week of FFA events. On Friday, September 8, students from Damascus Middle attended the Appalachian Area Leadership Conference where they participated in workshops “Being a Team Player” and “How to be an Effective Leader.” Students traveled to Big Stone Gap with FFA members from all over the area to mingle with other students with a common goal of leadership. Miki P., a DMS student in attendance said, “Attending this leadership conference showed me how to improve my communication skills and network with other student leaders.” Then, on Tuesday September 12, students attended the Appalachian Classic Livestock Judging Contest. Livestock judging consists of having students evaluate livestock based on the job they are going to be used for, dinner or breeding. Students rank the livestock best to worst. This activity gives the students practice in decision making and compare/contrast skills. Seventh grader Khloe O. commented that, “ Livestock judging taught me how to compare animals on which is better for market or breeding.” This will help improve her decision making skills later down the road. Congratulations to Damascus Middle School Team B for placing 3rd overall in the Appalachian Classic. The team consisted of 8th Graders, Abby S. and Maddox B. and 7th Graders Khloe O. and Brodi W.