Front L-R: Olivia Griner, Henry Lee, Morgan Rich and Preston Lynn
Back L-R: Kinsey Ward, Sybil Lee and Lailae Smith
Decatur County 4-H’ers distinguished themselves at Rock Eagle on February 10th-12th in the Southwest District Project Achievement competition. Junior/Senior Project Achievement is a challenging two-part competition, in which participants practice mastery in their field of interest through portfolio and presentation.
Representing Decatur County 4-H in the Junior division for 7th and 8th grade 4-H’ers were Henry Lee, Preston Lynn and Morgan Rich. Senior (9th-12th grade) participants included Lailae Smith, Sybil Lee, Olivia Griner, and Kinsey Ward.
The 4-H Portfolio is an extensive written record that encompasses a complete calendar year of involvement, leadership, and service in a selected project area. This report includes a cover letter, a two-page information sheet highlighting their work and activities, and a two-page list of supporting material, including photos and other related information. The portfolio composes 40%-50% of the student’s total score in the competition. Also, by preparing a portfolio, young people learn the skills needed to complete college applications, scholarship applications, professional resumes and proposals.
Additionally, 4-H’ers participating in Project Achievement investigate a topic and prepare a demonstration or “illustrated talk” with posters and props. Junior demonstrations are 10 minutes, and Senior demonstrations are 12 minutes. Scores are based on memorization, fluidity, presentation skills, and knowledge of the subject when questioned by the judges. Performing Arts categories require students to perform before judges and an audience.
In the Junior division, Preston Lynn earned 1st place in the Communications project. Henry Lee earned 1st place in the Sports-Team project and Morgan Rich placed 1st in the Outdoor Recreation project. Competition was intense among the Senior contenders. Sybil Lee was the 1st place winner in the Sports project and Kinsey Ward placed 1st in Performing Arts Instrumental. Lailae Smith earned 3rd place in the Workforce Preparation and Career Development project with Olivia Griner receiving 4th place in the Communications project. Sybil Lee and Kinsey Ward advance to the next level of competition at the Georgia 4-H State Congress in Atlanta in July.
4-H Project Achievement, an annual competition for 4th – 12th grade students, is a cornerstone in the Georgia 4-H program. From the first Boys Corn Club sharing their crop to today’s presentation and portfolios on hundreds of projects, Project Achievement serves to showcase 4-H’ers work and success. The diligence and dedication of Decatur County’s 4-H students supports the 4-H motto, “Making the Best Better”. For more information about 4-H activities please contact the UGA Decatur County Extension Office at 248-3033.
