This Barn is My Classroom

Texas is unmatched in youth livestock project ownership and participation. Students engaging in this project gain invaluable life skills such as work ethic, responsibility and accountability. Supporters of these exceptional youth invest nearly $100 million annually in the futures of these young agriculturalists. What can become lost in a barn full of livestock, exhibitors, trophies, banners, buckles, premiums and scholarships, is that the barn is actually a classroom. The County Extension Agents and Agricultural Science Teachers leading youth through this experience are professional educators affiliated with a public or private school. The exhibitors qualify for excused absences as an extracurricular activity. Livestock show barns are the classrooms for livestock exhibitors. Because the barn is a classroom, the livestock community must take notice that we are constantly projecting an image to the public regarding the value of our classroom. We must proclaim the values we stand for and also condemn certain behaviors that are unwelcome and unhelpful in preserving the sanctity of our unique classroom settings.

This Barn is My Classroom. #NotInMyClassroom

Disrespecting show officials, volunteers, County Extension Agents, Agricultural Science Teachers, the general public, and other exhibitors.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

The selfless commitment of the thousands of stakeholders in each livestock project is what elevates the youth livestock program.

Drinking of alcohol excessively by exhibitors’ family, friends, leaders, and others associated with livestock projects.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

The development of life skills depends on both observing positive mentors, as well as setting positive examples for generations to come.

Acting in a way as to negatively impact the image of FFA, 4-H and animal agriculture.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

The FFA and 4-H programs are time-honored examples of youth leadership programs. As educators, we use livestock projects as a tool for teaching.

Cursing, verbal abuse, and belligerent behavior toward anyone.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

Inappropriate actions can inhibit wholesome learning experiences and diminish the opportunity for setting a positive example.

Ignoring or breaking established stock show rules.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

The rules established by livestock show leadership are intended for the safety of all livestock, exhibitors, and visitors.

Using social media in a negative manner regarding livestock projects.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

Social media is best used as a tool to positively promote livestock programs and uplift fellow exhibitors, show officials, judges, and industry partners.

Compromising the welfare of livestock projects.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

Junior livestock exhibitors are an example of the commitment that all livestock producers have to treat animals safely and with respect.

Using any prohibited substances or techniques for a competitive advantage.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

Livestock projects serve as an example of industry standards regarding food safety and animal welfare. The integrity of youth livestock exhibition relies on fair competition.

Giving up the daily care of livestock projects to others with a financial interest in youth success.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

The commitment to daily care and responsibility of livestock projects is a fundamental building block to the development of life skills.

Being more concerned with livestock showing success, rather than positive youth development.

NOT IN MY CLASSROOM.

Success can be measured in many different ways. The youth livestock program is committed to developing life skills, portraying a positive example of the industry, and increasing animal science knowledge, family involvement, and fair competition.

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