Katy FFA Senior Baylee Pelzer Reflects on FFA Journey as She Prepares for Final Livestock Show
For Katy High School senior Baylee Pelzer, the Katy FFA has been more than a program—it's been a foundation for growth, education, and life skills. Over the past four years, Pelzer has excelled in FFA, earning the prestigious Lonestar Degree, Texas FFA’s highest honor. As she enters her final year in the program, she reflects on her journey and invites the community to support her upcoming participation in the Katy ISD Livestock Show.
“I’ve had the pleasure of raising pigs all four years of my FFA journey,” Pelzer shared. “This year, I’m showing my final pig, Pancetta. It’s bittersweet, but I’m so proud of how far we’ve come.”
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Pelzer’s days are a balancing act. In addition to her FFA commitments, she is a competitive cheerleader, a challenge that has taught her time management and perseverance. Every day, she makes two trips to the barn to care for Pancetta, often going above and beyond to ensure her pig is prepared for competition.
“FFA has taught me so much more than animal care,” she said. “It’s about leadership, dedication, and community. My Chapter Conducting team went to state every year, and in my senior year, we placed seventh in Texas. That’s something I’ll always be proud of.”
Pancetta, Baylee's pig. (Source: Baylee Pelzer)The Katy ISD Livestock Show, part of the Katy Rodeo and Livestock Show held February 13–15, 2025, will showcase Pelzer’s hard work. The swine show begins on Friday, February 14, at 8 a.m., with the live auction scheduled for Saturday, February 15, at 1 p.m. Community members can support students like Pelzer by participating in the auction or contributing through online add-ons, which help cover project expenses and support educational goals.
“The funds raised from this auction will help me pursue a degree in agriculture,” Pelzer explained. “Every donation makes a difference, and I’m grateful for the generosity of our community.”
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The Katy Rodeo and Livestock Show is a cherished tradition in Katy, Texas, celebrating youth and agricultural education. Attendees can enjoy rodeo events, family-friendly entertainment, and opportunities to support local FFA students. For more information on the event or to contribute to Baylee Pelzer’s add-on donations, visit the Katy ISD FFA Livestock Show Add-Ons page or learn more here.
As Pelzer prepares for her final show, she hopes her story inspires others to embrace the values of FFA. “FFA has given me so many opportunities to grow,” she said. “I’m excited to see where this journey leads next.”
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
