After the passing of Greeley West student Joey Lee Aleman, the FFA and agiculture classes continue to adjust to the “new normal,” balancing the need to continue activities and events with the sadness of doing so without their friend and peer.  The Ag team is doing their best to get events back up and going to all chapter events.

Aleman played a big role in the FFA, as he was Vice President. The first decision to be made was what to do with the open spot.  FFA sponsor Kelly Longacre explained “There will be no replacement. We will keep Joey’s spot open.”

Although Aleman will not be attending the events physically, the FFA team has come up with a way to have the presence of Aleman.  For instance, Aleman was supposed to attend this year’s national convention, for FFA. The FFA trip is happening right now.  Before they left, Longacre explained how Aleman would be joining the students.  “Joey was scheduled for Nationals. In place, we have decided to take a stuffed animal, with Joey’s pin, and take him along with us. He will ride the bus with us, go to group meetings, and act as vice president, in his own chair at Nationals.  After, he will be taken home to his family,” Longacre said.

The passing of Aleman was very tragic and unexpected. As the days go on, the Ag department is trying its best to be emotionally strong.  while making sure that Aleman will never be forgotten. In remembrance of him, the FFA made the decision that the funding for their FFA Jackets, will now be called the “Joey Aleman Fund.”