The Goshen High School FFA Chapter will celebrate more than 80 years of FFA traditions the week of February 16, which is National FFA Week.

The theme for 2013 National FFA Week is “Grow.”

Kelly Mullins, FFA advisor and Pike Agriscience and Technical Career Academy instructor, said the Goshen FFA Chapter will join more than 550,000 members nationwide in celebrating National FFA Week activities at local, state and national levels.

“These members come from rural, suburban and urban environments and are interested in the diversity of careers within agriculture,” Mullins said. “FFA members are the innovators and leaders of tomorrow. Through agricultural education and hands-on learning, they are preparing for the more than 300 career opportunities in the food, fiber and natural resources industry.”

Mullins said the Goshen FFA members will celebrate National FFA Week by participating in a variety of activities.

“February 19 is FFA Recruitment Day and Goshen FFA members will promote FFA and its purpose on campus as a way to increase membership,” Mullins said. “The next day, the focus will be on campus and community beautification. Our members will continue to promote recycling and keep our environment trash free.”

On Feb. 21, the FFA will host the Ag Olympics, which will be a highlight of FFA Week.

“This will be a time for our members to get to know each other better and show off their Ag knowledge in an Ag Olympic game challenge,” Mullins said. “On February 22, we’ll host Appreciation Day and members will be challenged with showing their appreciation to someone they feel is deserving. This could be a classmate, parent, teacher or administrator.”

National FFA Week is sponsored by Tractor Supply Company, which is the leading retail farm and ranch store brand in America. Tractor Supply Company owns and operates more than 1,150 stores in 45 states.

“We appreciate Tractor Supply Company’s support of the FFA program at Goshen High School as well as FFA programs across the country,” Mullins said.

The National FFA Organization is youth organization of 557,318 student members as part of 7,498 local FFA chapters in all 50 states and Puerto Rio and the Virgin Islands.

“The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education,” Mullins said.