Deane Bozeman School’s FFA students returned from Indianapolis with an achievement that puts their chapter among the best in the country: the 2026 National Premier Chapter Award in Growing Leaders.

In an organization with 9,591 chapters nationwide, Bozeman rose through a competitive selection process and was chosen from 10 national finalists for the top honor in Growing Leaders at the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo. The award recognizes the chapter’s success in helping students develop leadership skills, grow personally and prepare for future careers.

Behind that national recognition is a story of students using what they learn to create opportunities for others.

As part of their winning work, Bozeman FFA members translated a farm-themed children’s book into American Sign Language and presented it to elementary students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Members learned agricultural signs to make the experience more accessible, sharing their enthusiasm for agriculture while building their own communication and leadership skills.

The project reflects the learning that happens throughout Bozeman’s agriculture program. Whether students are working on the school farm, preparing for competition or serving their community, they are learning to take responsibility, solve problems and lead with purpose.

The national title caps an exceptional year for both Bozeman FFA chapters. The high school and middle school chapters each earned the Three-Star Chapter designation, the highest rating awarded through the National Chapter Award Program. The middle school chapter also earned Top 10 national finalist honors in Building Communities and Strengthening Agriculture, while Presley Kent earned recognition as a Top Four national finalist in Agricultural Processing.

With chapters represented in all three Premier Chapter divisions, Bozeman became one of only three schools in Florida FFA history to reach that milestone.

For Bay District Schools, these accomplishments demonstrate how hands-on agricultural education opens doors for students. The skills developed on the farm and through FFA, teamwork, confidence, communication and service, prepare students for success wherever their futures take them.

Congratulations to Bozeman’s FFA students and advisors on bringing national recognition home to Bay County!