UPDATE: The Asotin FFA Parliamentary Procedure (Parli-Pro) Team has just secured a remarkable second-place finish at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, marking a historic achievement for the school’s agricultural program. Competing against teams from across the nation, this six-member team showcased exceptional skills and dedication, elevating their small school to national prominence.
The competition concluded last week, and team member Berklie Sheppard, a 17-year-old senior, expressed her disbelief, stating, “It’s sort of surreal, honestly. We weren’t expecting to make the final round.” This achievement is particularly significant for their mentor, Glen Landrus, who at 54 years old has dedicated 29 years as an FFA adviser. This is the furthest any of his teams have ever advanced.
During a celebratory assembly held at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Landrus addressed the gathered students in the high school gym, emphasizing the importance of excellence across all activities. “Winning in FFA is hard… To be excellent, you need to seize opportunity,” he told them, highlighting the hard work and sacrifices made by the team.
The team, comprising seniors Stone Ausman, Spencer Conklin, Cody Ells, Noah Saltz, and Sheppard, along with Tegan Isley, a 2025 graduate, excelled in a rigorous competition where they memorized Robert’s Rules of Order and demonstrated their ability to conduct a meeting in front of an audience. Their proud second-place finish came despite competing against a California team with a much larger pool of students.
In addition to the FFA achievements, junior Kambree Palmer emerged as a standout violinist at the convention. Selected from 400 submissions to be one of 60 performers at nationals, Palmer showcased her talent in multiple venues throughout the week. Although she did not make the top ten, she performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” before a crowd of more than 10,000 attendees at Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.
Landrus praised both the Parli-Pro team and Palmer for their remarkable accomplishments. “Doing what’s required will not make you great,” he advised students, noting that true greatness comes from going above and beyond.
As the excitement continues, the Asotin FFA Team’s achievement serves as an inspiration for students and community members alike. With the spotlight on their hard work, these young leaders are poised to make an even greater impact in their future endeavors.
Stay tuned for more updates on their journey and upcoming events as they build on this incredible experience.
