A vision which has become reality for the Oakdale Joint Unified School District Board was made tangible Monday night as the district acknowledged the recent achievement of the Oakdale High School Future Farmers of America team.

The students as well as teachers were publicly acknowledged at the start of the monthly school board meeting for winning the Stanislaus County Fair Thurman Award for the third consecutive year. A feat which was made possible due to the district’s support of growing the Ag Department of Oakdale High School, as well as the addition of the Oakdale School Farm.

“Last year we recognized 25 students,” Superintendent of Schools, Marc Malone shared with the audience. “Tonight again they won the championship, defending their title for the third time and tonight we’re going to recognize 45 students.”

Students from grades nine through twelve were recognized for individual achievements contributing to the overall team as a whole, which resulted in the win.

“I think this is indicative of the growth that has taken place in that department,” Malone continued.

Following the introductions and acknowledgment of the students Malone invited the team leader/teachers to speak.

Department Head and FFA Leader, Isaac Robles addressed the board and audience expressing gratitude toward the board, as well as the students for their dedication to the program.

“The growth has been unbelievable,” Robles stated. “The school farm has been a big, big part of that.”

Robles also noted his amazement at the size of the current team, which barely fit in front of the fair backdrop for the Thurman award winner photo.

“Probably the one biggest thing that I think is a true testament to the kids is the parents in this room and the parents who help out,” Robles said. “We are beneficiaries of your good parenting and the good that you’ve done with them.”

Board member Barbara Shook acknowledged the group, stating her acquaintance with John Thurman as a child.

“He would be thrilled to see this type of thing going on in his name,” Shook said.

Travel for FFA students to attend the Western Fall Classic Livestock Judging in Oregon was approved later in the meeting.

General business reports were given and approved by the board. There were no significant actions to be noted.

The monthly meeting began promptly at 6:30 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance being led by Fair Oaks Elementary students, Emma Humphrey, Breanna Platt and Dylan Krause.

The next meeting will be conducted on Monday, Oct. 8 at the OJUSD Tech Center at 6:30 p.m.