A member of the Peotone FFA Chapter of the Illinois Association FFA, Emma Bialko was selected as the State FFA Proficiency Winner in Equine Science Placement. Illinois FFA recognizes students in 48 different areas based on their work-based learning (SAEs). FFA members who demonstrate outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through record keeping, leadership, and scholastic achievement may be considered for this award. SAEs allow students to learn by doing in either owning and operating an agricultural business, working or serving an internship at an agriculture-based business, or conducting an agriculture-based scientific experiment and reporting results.
Emma was selected as the State Winner by a committee of agriculture teachers, industry friends, parents, and volunteers knowledgeable in this work-based area, who reviewed her records online and then conducted interviews at Mt. Zion High School, on Saturday, March 23.
Receiving this honor makes Emma eligible to compete in the National FFA Awards selection process in July. She previously was chosen as the Chapter, Section, and District awardee in this area. Emma will receive a plaque for her accomplishment and be celebrated for this great achievement at the 96th Illinois FFA State Convention, June 11 – 13.
Emma also was recognized as a District FFA Star Winner. Illinois FFA recognizes four outstanding FFA members in each of the five FFA Districts in Illinois, who then are honored as the District Star Award winner for outstanding accomplishments in FFA and agricultural education. The District Star Awards – including the Star Farmer, Star in Agribusiness, Star in Agricultural Placement, and Star in Agriscience – recognize FFA members utilizing SAEs.
Emma was selected as the District 2 Winner by a committee of agriculture industry representatives and teachers knowledgeable in this work-based area and will receive a plaque. Receiving this honor also made Emma eligible to compete in the State FFA Awards selection process in Mt. Zion, on March 23. She previously was chosen as the Chapter and Section awardee in this area, as well.
Emma has been involved in the following additional agriculture education and FFA activities: State Winner in Agricultural Communications Journalistic Writer, Section 10 and District II Winner in Equine Science Placement, State Horse Evaluation CDE, serving as a chapter officer, and volunteering in community service activities.
Emma is the daughter of Michael and Amy Bialko of Peotone. Abby Jacobs Cowger and Dakota Cowger are the agriculture teachers and FFA Advisors at Peotone High School.
Plaques presented to awardees are made possible from gifts by individuals, businesses, corporations, and organizations through the Illinois Foundation FFA. Congratulations, Emma!!