One thing that sets Saint Jeanne de Lestonnac Catholic High School apart is their inclusion of the National FFA Organization program, a dynamic youth organization that prepares members for leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
As the only chapter in the Temecula Valley, they have become a powerhouse within the FFA world, producing State and Regional Officers in addition to numerous competition accolades.
Most recently, the chapter had been focusing on their newest endeavor- a no-till regenerative farm.
The Chapter's advisor, agriculture teacher Christian Gomez, says that the farm helps students understand the impact of agriculture in the world and the importance of sustainability.
"The value of the farm is that it allows all our AG classes the opportunity to learn in a kinesthetic way. To care for the soil without disrupting the ecosystem and then to be able to use what we produce," says Gomez.
While Gomez serves as advisor, much of the day to day work is done by students. Elective classes such as Food Science and Floral Design utilize items grown on the farm in their projects.
The farm is a Riverside County Certified Producer and grows a variety of items, from corn and tomatoes to garlic, lavender, honey and cut flowers.