By John D. Boyle, Four Points News
At Vandegrift High School, the Agriculture Science (Ag) program is cultivating more than livestock — it’s growing leaders, building character and instilling a strong sense of responsibility in its students. Under the leadership of Ag Science Program Advisors, Joe Lemmons, Shannon Tidwell, Magan Escamilla and Wade Albert, the program continues to thrive within Leander Independent School District (LISD), with students not only earning accolades at livestock shows across Texas and placing at FFA Nationals and now preparing for an even stronger season ahead.
“Our Ag program is not just about showing an animal,” Tidwell said. “It’s about raising it, caring for it, respecting it, understanding it, and showing up every single day to give them the care they deserve. These students are learning responsibility, time management, communication and perseverance. It’s a full-circle experience and a powerful one that translates to many future aspects of their lives.”
Strong Showings at Local and State Events
Nearly 20 Vandegrift FFA students represented the school with pride and purpose this year at the Travis County Youth Show, and Greater Leander FFA Project Show, and major statewide events including the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Houston
Livestock Show and Rodeo, and Rodeo Austin.
“The Travis County Youth Show, and Leander shows are our bread and butter each year but this year it was fantastic to see student experience and enjoy some of the largest shows in the world,” noted Tidwell. “This is where our students compete with other schools in our district as well as 4H programs in the area. This year our VHS Ag students did amazing and were rewarded for their hard work which is rewarding for us to see as their instructors and mentors.”
Many students began raising their animals as early as last May, managing daily care routines and preparing for the competitive season. This year, Vandy students showcased steers, pigs, goats, and sheep while FFA also offers opportunities to raise and show rabbits, turkeys and chickens. Their hard work paid off with outstanding results.
The Vandegrift team earned multiple Grand Champion, Reserve Grand Champion, and many other significant placements at the local events in the youth competitions that affirm the hard work and commitment from these past 10 months of dedication. Several students also earned significant prize money, which will support future projects or be saved for college. In many cases, students have already purchased animals for the next season and are starting preparations for next year’s events.
Animal Welfare as a Core Value
The primary objective of the program is to treat each animal with care and respect, just as students are expected to do within their own community. Animals are fed high-quality nutrition, given routine exercise, and receive daily attention and training. Many of the animals come to the barn as young babies and form significant bonds with their Vandy caretakers.
This year, animals were given names such as Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Bowie, Major Tom, Ducky, Chubbs, Sully, Cookie, Comanche, Peter, Murphy, Whiskey, Rudy, and many more. (Note: “Piggy Stardust” is still available for a future project).
Beyond the Barn: A Program for Everyone
While livestock projects remain central, Vandegrift’s Ag program offers much more. Students also participate in public speaking, floral design, woodworking, metalworking, quilting, crochet, cooking events. Welding, entomology and career development events round out the curriculum, providing broad opportunities for personal growth.
“There’s something for every student,” Tidwell said. “If animals aren’t your thing, there are leadership and public speaking events, job interview contests, radio and more. There is something for any student to explore and we provide support and resources to ensure the growth of each student in their area of interest.
The program is open to all students, including incoming freshmen, and fosters a supportive, inclusive environment where lifelong friendships are often formed.
Tradition of Excellence and Strong Leadership
Vandegrift’s Ag Science program is a standout in Leander ISD, benefiting from a strong tradition of district support and exceptional teaching staff.
“If a student comes to school and has an interest in any area of our Ag Sciences program, we have some of the best ag teachers and best programs in the state,” said Vandegrift Principal Charlie Little.
Little credited the success of the program by hiring top-tier educators and fostering a collaborative culture. Something that he prioritizes with every Vandy program and of which extremely proud!
“As with every Vandegrift program I hire the best and I put this team in place because they are the best and have worked together in the past. We had our team in place even before we had our own Ag barn. The results of the program and successes of our students over the years is a testament to these four outstanding professionals and their work with our students,” said Little. “They’re here because they love what they do, they love our students, and they love Vandegrift. Our program is one if the best in Texas because they are the best in Texas.”
Support from Community and Family
The success of the Ag program is made possible by strong community support. Local families, businesses and sponsors help fund student projects, promote awareness, and contribute at auction sales.
Many students also invest their own time and money, making their success even more meaningful. “They’re not just participating — they’re putting their hearts into this,” Tidwell said.
Spotlight on the Big Three Shows
Vandegrift students stood tall among the best competitions at Texas’ (and the world’s) most prestigious events:
- San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo: Established in 1950, it has awarded more than $243 million in scholarships and draws over 1.5 million visitors annually.
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo: The world’s largest livestock and rodeo event, launched in 1932. It supports youth and education with over $600 million donated to date.
- Rodeo Austin: Known for its unique combination of rodeo, concerts and competitive livestock shows, Rodeo Austin began in 1938 and remains a vital scholarship fundraiser.
Outside of competitions, students took the opportunity to attend rodeo events (such as bull riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, etc.), supporting FFA friends from other schools in the area and of course enjoying classic Texas faire cuisine such as corn dogs and funnel cakes. Most importantly, the events were a bonding experience for Vandy students, families, staff and new friends.
Looking Ahead
With strong district backing, exceptional educators and a supportive community, the Vandegrift Ag program continues to thrive. As next year’s projects take shape, the future looks bright.
“They’re learning skills that will last them a lifetime,” Tidwell said. “Whether they go into agriculture or not, they leave this program stronger, more responsible and more confident in themselves. That’s what it’s all about.”
Campbell Jordan, Vandy FFA Chapter President and Capital District Treasurer expressed, “We’re coming off a very successful year here at Vandegrift FFA with our Vet Science team representing Texas and placing third at FFA Nationals and three Leadership Development Teams (LDE) qualifying for State.” Jordan continued, “This year we’ve grown so much as a chapter and have made many friends across the area and state. We’re already looking forward to another fantastic year with even more great students in our program, especially incoming freshman that we hope to see in Principles of Agriculture next year. Our program really does have something for everyone, whether you they pursue a career in agriculture or just explore new interests.”
Interested incoming freshmen are encouraged to take Principles of Agriculture and returning students may enroll in any of the many entry level agriculture elective courses available. All Vipers will find their place in a program that celebrates passion, effort, excellence and friendships — both in and out of the show ring.
