What is the potential financial impact on Oregon FFA due to state budget cuts?

Oregon FFA stands to lose up to $1.1 million, nearly three-quarters of its 2024 revenue, due to proposed state budget cuts.

How do FFA programs affect high school graduation rates in Oregon?

FFA and other CTE programs significantly boost graduation rates, with CTE participants achieving a 90.3% rate and concentrators reaching 97.7%.

Why is state funding important for Oregon FFA programs?

State funding supports student enrollment, allows advisors to assist with projects outside school hours, and cultivates leadership skills crucial for future careers and communities.

Home / Education / Oregon FFA Faces Funding Crisis

Oregon FFA Faces Funding Crisis

11 Feb

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Summary

Oregon FFA may lose $1.1 million, nearly 75% of 2024 revenue.
FFA programs boost graduation rates significantly for participants.
Funding cuts threaten student opportunities and advisor support.

Oregon FFA, an organization dedicated to developing future leaders for nearly a century, is facing a severe financial crisis. State budget cuts implemented in 2026 threaten to strip the program of up to $1.1 million, which constitutes nearly 75% of its projected 2024 revenue. This drastic reduction endangers FFA programs for hundreds of students statewide, including those in Hermiston, and limits the essential support advisors provide.

Beyond traditional agriculture, FFA equips students with vital skills such as teamwork and public speaking, preparing them for diverse career paths. Data from 2023-24 showed that students involved in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, including FFA, achieved significantly higher graduation rates compared to the state average. For CTE concentrators, the graduation rate reached an impressive 97.7%.

State funding for Oregon FFA was reinstated in 2019 through House Bill 2444, allocating $1.43 million. This investment led to a nearly threefold increase in Hermiston's FFA enrollment. Employers frequently seek out FFA participants for their professionalism and skills. Cutting this funding would undermine efforts to foster leadership and support student-led businesses and projects.