Key Actions from CATA’s Governing Board and Executive Committee

By Matt Patton, CATA Executive Director

The following are actions taken by the California Agricultural Teachers' Association (CATA) Governing Board and CATA Executive Committee on behalf of the membership during and after the CATA Summer Conference in June 2024. 

Careers Development Events

The Governing Board took action to reinstate the Food Science Career Development Event in 2025. Five schools submitted letters of intent to participate in the contest during the 2024-25 school year. State Finals for the event will be held at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in May. 

Due to low participation in 2023-24, the Governing Board placed the Fruit Tree Pruning Career Development Event on probation. Less than five teams participated in the state finals contest, and in accordance with the CATA Curricular Code, the contest will be placed on probation for the 2024-25 academic year. If participation remains low, the contest may be suspended. 

Accounting

The Governing Board approved moving CATA’s accounting from cash-basis to an accrual system. In accrual accounting, payments and expenses are recorded when earned or incurred, unlike cash accounting, where transactions are recorded when payment is made or received.

State Reconsiders Distribution of $470 Million for College and Career Grants

By Emma Gallegos for Ed Source

As the 2024 school year unfolds, the Golden State Pathways Program—a $500 million initiative launched by the California Legislature in June 2022—promised to revolutionize career and college preparation for high school students. Governor Gavin Newsom hailed it as a “game-changer,” aiming to provide students with enhanced career and educational opportunities in fields like STEM, education, and health care. However, as the new academic year begins, frustration mounts among school leaders who are still waiting for the promised funds.

The program’s rollout has been plagued by delays, confusing processes, and the recent revelation of additional reviews by the California Department of Education. These issues have left schools and regional agencies in financial limbo, disrupting their plans and budgets. This article explores the ongoing challenges faced by educators and administrators as they navigate the uncertain landscape of the Golden State Pathways Program and advocates for swift resolution to ensure students receive the critical resources they were promised.

Nominations Open for the Golden Owl Award

Let’s Go to Indy!

The 97th National FFA Convention & Expo is right around the corner, taking place from October 23-26, 2024. Don’t miss out on the early bird registration, which offers the best rates and priority access to live entertainment events. The early bird rate is just $85 and is available until October 2. Act quickly to secure this special rate!



• Registration is now open!
• Still searching for a place to stay? Rooms are available through the FFA Housing Block. 
• Become a convention expert with the A to Z Guide.

Congratulations to the 2023 National Chapter, Agriscience Fair, and Proficiency Finalists

The finalists for the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo's National Chapter Awards, National FFA Agriscience Fair, and Agricultural Proficiency Awards have been announced. We extend our congratulations to the deserving California finalists. To check out the 2024 results, simply follow the links below.

• The National FFA Agriscience Fair recognizes student researchers studying the application of agricultural scientific principles and emerging technologies in agricultural enterprises. The agriscience fair is open to middle and high school students. Participation begins at the local level and progresses to state and national levels.
• The Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through their supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers.
• The National Chapter Award Program is designed to recognize FFA chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the organization.

Thank You Corporate Members!

The California Ag Teachers' Association appreciates the commitment of our corporate members who support agricultural education.

FFA Political Engagement Policy

As election season approaches, it's important to review the National FFA policy on political involvement and statements. According to our federal charter, FFA is a non-partisan organization and does not endorse political candidates or parties. Specifically, "The FFA or a director, officer, or member acting on behalf of the FFA may not contribute to, support, or assist a political party or candidate for elective public office."

FFA members are encouraged to be active in advocacy and the legislative process, but it’s crucial to do so in a way that upholds the integrity of our organization. This includes being mindful of how their words, actions, and attire may be perceived.

For more information, please visit this link or contact cglowacki@ffa.org for any clarifications.

Golden State Ag Foundation’s 2025 Harvest of Merit Award

In 2023, Anixia Davila from Gonzales FFA was awarded $1,000 from the Golden State Ag Foundation to support her market goat project. Anixia raised, showed, and sold her goat at the Salinas Valley Fair. This is just one example of the types of impactful projects the Harvest of Merit Award aims to support.

As an ag teacher or advisor, you have a valuable role in encouraging your students to apply for the 2025 Harvest of Merit Award. This award offers funding and in-kind support for various projects, including animal care, ag mechanics or technology, plant science, and culinary arts.



Encourage your students to apply by visiting this link and submitting their completed application by 11:45 PM on October 15, 2024.

Wilco Grants for Chapter Projects

In the last decade, Wilco has been an incredible supporter of FFA, contributing over $1.4 million to FFA members in Oregon, Washington, and California. This incredible initiative provides financial support to chapters with innovative and impactful projects in mind—projects that have the power to have a big effect on FFA members. Your chapter could receive up to $4,000 to make your project come to life!

In the past, these grants have fueled a wide array of amazing projects, such as refurbishing chapter equipment, investing in state-of-the-art greenhouses and land labs, expanding livestock programs, organizing educational adventures, and contributing back to the community through meaningful service projects.

Ready to turn your ideas into reality? Don't wait any longer! The deadline for applications is October 18. Apply today by visiting: Wilco Grant Application