SSCS Teacher Allen Returns From Indianapolis with Prestigious FFA Award

on November 5, 2025
woman awardee holds up plaque

SSCS Teacher Anne Allen

Anne Allen, a longtime agricultural educator and FFA advisor at SSCS, was awarded the 2025 Honorary American FFA Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo Oct. 31 in Indianapolis. This prestigious national honor recognizes individuals who have provided exceptional service to agricultural education and the FFA organization. SSCS staff and students watched live online from the school while Allen received the honor.

Allen began her teaching career at Sharon Springs Central School in 1996, where she quickly became known for her dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success.
Over nearly three decades, she has inspired countless students, both in her classroom and through her work with FFA, to explore agricultural education, leadership, and community service. She has advised multiple graduating classes and mentored students in developing the confidence and skills necessary for success beyond high school.
teacher is presented award plaque on large stageThroughout her tenure, Allen has led students to numerous local, state, and national FFA events, ensuring they gain hands-on experiences and opportunities to grow as leaders. She has accompanied students to State and National FFA Conventions, and her mentorship has helped many achieve the highest honors, with several going on to hold state and national FFA offices.
Known as a friend to everyone, Allen is respected by students, colleagues, and community members alike. She is celebrated not only as an educator and advisor, but also as a mentor, colleague, wife, and mother. Allen is, indeed, someone who has touched the lives of those around her with unwavering kindness, passion, and dedication.

 

Her students and colleagues spoke passionately about the difference she has made in their lives

“Mrs. Allen, through FFA, has helped me to be more open and able to meet new people and to interact with them. She encouraged and supported me to participate in contests, and she pushed me to engage in leadership conferences. Taking me to camp multiple times, I met so many people and made new friends. Mrs. Allen is always helpful and upbeat.”

High School Junior

“Thank you for fueling a passion in being an active part of my community as well as helping me become a confident public speaker.”

High School Sophomore

“Mrs. Allen has always been there for us. She made time to help me with contests and get awards. She came in over summer vacation to help me get my Empire Degree, and I am so grateful to have had her as my club advisor. She was like a second mother to all of us.”

High School Senior

“Mrs. Allen has pushed me through FFA to become a more outgoing person through contests, like my very first one which was extemporaneous speaking, and activities like going to Camp Oswegatchie and the other FFA conferences. She has also encouraged me to do more, as I attempted to pursue a district office, and to always keep trying and learning from my setbacks.”

High School Senior

“As a young teacher, Mrs. Allen took me under her wing, showed me the ropes, helped me stay out of trouble, and helped me survive my first few years as a teacher. Her infectious positive attitude has drawn me into numerous FFA activities and events over the years. She is always there to help her students no matter what they need help with. It has been my honor to work with her over the years, and I am thankful for all she has done for me, our students, and my family. There is no one more deserving of this honor than Mrs. Allen. Congratulations!”

Teacher Dan Cornwell

“I know that part of the creed FFA abides by includes statements such as: ‘a faith born not of words but of deeds,’ honoring ‘past generations,’ and giving ‘respect to others.’ I also know SSCS students, for over two decades, have had their education enriched and their lives blessed by Mrs. Allen. She truly and passionately embodies the creed of FFA, providing students with a multitude of opportunities, from running for offices within the organization to planning yearly overnight trips to operating a yearly petting zone for our elementary students. Each of these experiences keeps our students engaged, challenges them, and ultimately ignites their passion for learning. Thank you, Anne, for your tireless and selfless dedication.”

Tom Yorke, K–12 Principal/Superintendent

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