Five members of the Central Valley High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter earned state FFA degrees recently.

The five were: Lliria Lira Trinidad, Melanie Perez, Dillon Jenkins, Joshuah Michelena and Marianna Carranza.

The State FFA Degree is awarded to FFA members who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to the California State FFA Association and made significant accomplishments in their Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs). Approximately 1,800 state FFA degrees are earned by students each year.

That number represents approximately 3% of the California FFA association membership, making it the state’s highest honor. In addition to their degree, each recipient receives a gold State FFA Degree charm. The top State FFA Degree recipients may also apply for a Star Award.

In order to earn state degrees, candidates must keep a detailed record book of their project, make at least $1,000 on their project and have 500 hours minimum invested in there project along with several other criteria that must be met.