Bialko Earns Prestigious FFA Gold Ranking
Emma Bialko of the Peotone FFA chapter in Peotone has received a Gold Ranking this year for the Equine Science Placement Agricultural Proficiency Award.
Only nine FFA members nationwide were selected as Gold Ranking or higher in this proficiency award area.
Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Students compete in areas ranging from agricultural communications to wildlife management. Proficiency awards are also recognized at local and state levels, and provide recognition to members exploring and becoming established in agricultural career pathways. Emma was recognized as the Section, District, and Illinois FFA award winner in this area in June 2024.
Emma, the daughter of Michael and Amy Bialko of Peotone, is a 2024 graduate of Peotone High School, where Mrs. Abby Jacobs-Cowger and Mr. Dakota Cowger are the FFA advisors. Emma’s records reflect work at three different equine facilities in Will and Kankakee counties.
This award is supported by Merck Animal Health, Cargill Protein, Elanco Animal Health, New Holland, Tractor Supply Company, U.S. Poultry & Egg Association, Zoetis, Indiana Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Insurance, and Phibro Animal Health Corporation.
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states and Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.