Taking time away from the stressful work of Washington, D.C., Virginia’s 5th District Representative, Robert Hurt, recently came to the rural environment of Fluvanna County to connect with the FCHS teens. Hurt’s visit to the school’s Future Farmers of America Club (FFA) and agriculture classes to talk about environmental issues on March 22 coincided with the last stop of his scheduled work week. These work weeks occur once a month and allow Hurt to interact with local elected officials as well as schools in the 5th district.

Hurt came to talk with students about the importance of agriculture and horticulture. FCHS agriculture teacher Russell Jennings has been a part of FFA for over 20 years. The club collects firewood for the community and teaches much-needed life skills such as leadership, personal growth and career success. “It’s not just about getting dirty,” said Jennings, “we are also trying to do a lot of community service.”  

After Hurt’s presentation, the class showed him the school’s new greenhouse and discussed what they plan to do with the plants they are cultivating, such as selling them at the weekly Farmer’s Market at Pleasant Grove. Proceeds of their sales will go directly back into school programs. “I thought it was fascinating,” said Hurt, noting that the skills being taught in FFA and Jennings’ agriculture and horticulture classes are very relevant in today’s society. “We need to graduate young people who can compete in a global economy,” Hurt said.

Growing up the farming area of Chatham, Virginia, Hurt worked in a tobacco factory when he was younger, so he knows all too well how important farming and agriculture programs are to a community. “If you look at the challenges we face as a nation, it is clear that the challenge will require very bright young people,” said Hurt.

Jennings said Hurt’s visit was much appreciated. “It was good to see how a politician promoted agriculture in this district and for the members to see a good example of how to grow in their leadership from FFA to become upstanding members in the community,” he said.