Frenship ISD is happy to announce that Frenship High School senior Gunner Claybrook will proudly represent the Frenship FFA Chapter at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis this week. Claybrook will be competing for the National Proficiency Award in Specialty Crop Production. This summer he was named one of four national finalists for the Proficiency Award in Specialty Crop Production, a distinction earned through dedication and success at the district, area, and state levels.
Last week, AgTexas Farm Credit Services presented a $2,000 check to Frenship FFA to help cover travel and competition expenses. Frenship FFA is grateful for AgTexas’ continued commitment to supporting local agricultural education and the next generation of agricultural leaders.
“For several years now, AgTexas has invested in youth involved in agriculture,” said Matthew Huston, Frenship High School FFA Advisor. “From an agricultural educator’s perspective, it’s incredible that an agriculture-based company recognizes the need for high-quality young people to lead the next generation of food, fiber, and fuel production. When they choose to donate to our chapter, it demonstrates their commitment and belief in the students of the South Plains who are achieving at the highest level. It makes me proud to know that Frenship is a chapter reaching those heights, and having supporters who recognize and invest in that success is very humbling.”
Huston said Claybrook’s achievement is the result of years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work.
“To advance to the national level, Gunner first won his proficiency category at the district, area, and state levels. In July, all the state-winning proficiencies across the nation were judged, and out of approximately 50 applications, four finalists were selected. These finalists go through a series of interviews, and on stage this Friday at the National FFA Convention, the national winner will be announced,” said Huston.
As an advisor, Huston has seen firsthand how FFA transforms students both personally and professionally.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about FFA is that everything revolves around showing livestock. While that is certainly one component, the true growth in students happens through the wide variety of competitive events students participate in,” said Huston. “What makes FFA so unique is that, although it’s rooted in agriculture, the skills students develop translate to virtually any career path. From parliamentary procedure to public speaking, FFA equips students with both industry-based knowledge and essential soft skills needed to find success.”
Huston has seen students step outside of their comfort zone and develop life-long leadership skills.
“Personally, I’ve watched students grow from shy freshmen into confident leaders who have served as district, area, and state officers or have gone on to win state championships. Many of these students have then gone on to lead in their universities, start businesses, and of course, a few have become successful farmers. It’s hard to fully describe the growth students experience through FFA,” said Huston. “I may be biased, but it’s difficult to find another organization that develops such well-rounded young people capable of succeeding in any field after graduation.”
Huston explained that agriculture is the foundation of everyday life, connecting communities through the essential resources it provides.
“Agriculture is the one industry the world cannot function without. It provides the food, fiber, and fuel needed to sustain life. That’s why it’s vital we continue to develop intelligent, driven, and passionate young agriculturists who will take on the challenges of feeding and clothing a growing population,” Huston said. “Beyond the technical side, agricultural education teaches students resilience, how to work hard, persevere, and overcome challenges. These traits will serve them in any career they pursue.”
He emphasized that community partnerships make these life-changing experiences possible for students.
“Help from supporters and the community allows our students to take part in all these experiences. Because of that, I want to sincerely thank our community and supporters like AgTexas for recognizing the importance of agriculture and for investing in the future by supporting youth agricultural programs such as FFA.”
As his Claybrook heads to Indianapolis, Huston said he is filled with pride knowing how far they’ve come.
“Here at Frenship FFA, we set high expectations for every student. At times, I’m sure they think we push them too hard with long practices and always expecting more,” Huston shared. “While we’re certainly competitive and love to win, our motivation goes far beyond banners. The real reward comes from watching students grow into individuals who will change the world around them.”
Huston shared that seeing his students’ growth throughout the year is always one of the most rewarding parts of teaching, especially when they reach milestones like this.
“Of course, I’ll be anxious and proud as we walk across the stage on Friday, but more than anything, I look forward to watching all of our students step into the world with the skills and confidence to make a difference.”
The Frenship High School FFA will be hosting a send-off for Claybrook on Wednesday, October 29, at 7:30 a.m. at the Ag Shop. The community is invited to wish him good luck before leaving for Indianapolis.
Good luck, Gunner Claybrook! Frenship ISD is proud of your leadership and commitment to excellence.