KIRKSVILLE, MO -- Members of Kirksville’s FFA Organization held their annual petting zoo on Wednesday.  The event coincides with National FFA week and is an educational and fun experience for youngsters across the area.

“We usually invite first graders and preschoolers so the preschoolers get to come back and see different animals again” said Kirksville FFA Secretary Elizabeth Jane.  “The teachers are also glad we do it too because it’s fun to watch the little kids see the animals and also to learn about them at the same time.”

Jane said the goal of the event is for FFA members to showcase their knowledge of agriculture.

“It’s an opportunity for our students to share what they know with the little kids who might not be on a farm and their not able to see a pig or a cow or a zebu on a daily basis.  Usually we answer basic questions like what the animals eat or how we take care of them.”

The FFA is a dynamic youth organization that is part of agricultural education programs at the middle and high school levels.  The FFA is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

In 1988 the official name of the organization was changed from “Future Farmers of America” to “The National FFA Organization.”

The petting zoo will conclude on Thursday at the Kirksville Area Technical Center.