FFA competition season is officially underway, and for many Finley FFA members, the highway to State Convention is long but full of opportunity. Throughout the winter and spring months, students will compete in a variety of Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs) with the goal of earning a spot at the Washington State FFA Convention in Pullman this May.
The season kicked off with the Subdistrict Employment Skills LDE held at Kiona-Benton City High School, where
Trell Miles,
Soren Miles, and
Ava Teagle represented Finley FFA. This event mirrors a real-world job application process and challenges students to demonstrate professional readiness. Prior to the competition, each member submitted a job application, résumé, and cover letter for a prospective position. During the event, they participated in a formal interview with judges, followed by writing a thank-you letter on site that same evening, highlighting the importance of professionalism and follow-through.
All three members performed well among a competitive field of 22 participants.
Ava Teagle placed 4th overall, earning her a spot at the District Employment Skills LDE on February 11 in Kittitas. Ava now sets her sights on placing in the top four at districts to advance to state—wish her luck!
Trell Miles placed 9th overall, while
Soren Miles earned 11th place, gaining valuable experience early in the season.
The momentum continues as Finley FFA members prepare for upcoming LDEs and CDEs, including Prepared Public Speaking, Creed Speaking, Extemporaneous Public Speaking, and Agricultural Sales. With long hours of practice, studying, and preparation ahead, members are committed to improving their skills and representing their chapter with pride.
As competition season progresses, Finley FFA looks forward to supporting its members every step of the way on the road to Pullman—where dedication, leadership, and hard work just might pay off.
Update Feb. 2:
Finley FFA members demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills while competing in the FFA District 4 Subdistrict competitions, earning multiple advancements to the district level. Subdistricts held in Ellensburg on February 2, 2026, allowed members to show off their hard work and dedication.
In the Creed Speaking competition,
Rayanne Curtis placed third overall in her flight, securing her advancement to the District 4 competition.
Finley FFA also saw great success in Prepared Public Speaking.
Ava Teagle earned second place,
Soren Miles placed third, and
Trell Miles finished fifth, with all three members advancing on to districts.
During the Extemporaneous Public Speaking competition,
Ava Teagle placed fifth,
Trell Miles earned third, and
Soren Miles placed second. Both Trell and Soren advanced to the district competition in this event.
In addition to competition success, two Finley FFA members took part in the District 4 FFA officer selection process that night:
Ava Teagle and
Soren Miles interviewed with a panel of judges and delivered speeches in front of all attendees as they competed for a position on the District 4 FFA officer team. Their participation showcased their commitment to leadership and service within the organization. The announcement of the district officer team will take place at the district competition on March 9th in Prosser.
Finley FFA is proud of all members who represented the chapter with professionalism and confidence and looks forward to cheering them on as they continue their FFA journey at the district level.