The Fort Worth Livestock Show and Rodeo brings together 4-H and FFA students from all across the state of Texas, but for one Frenship High School Student just making it to the show means more than any buckle.
Andrew Reyna, is a senior at Frenship High School with autism. This year, he decided he want to show a pig and with the help of the Frenship FFA he accomplished that goal and gained valuable knowledge at the same time.
“I showed a spotted pig by the name of paintball,” Reyna said. “I was able to learn the responsibility in taking care of a pig, so I was able to challenge myself more.”
Reyna had a spirit that made a lasting impact on first year Agriculture teacher Ron Snyder. Snyder said that students like Andrew are the reason he started teaching in the first place.
“We just love to see our kids out there succeeding and he had the biggest smile on his face and had so much fun in the show ring,” Snyder said. “He’s put in all the work. He’s always out there at the barn, cleaning, walking, he will do anything that you ask him.”
Andrew’s father passed away three years ago, and his mother hoped that he would find someone to look up to again. She said the Ag teachers at Frenship High School have been wonderful role models for her son.
“They have been encouraging and nurturing and they have been an answer to prayer,” Reyna said. ” You feel like you are a part of a family and they have been one of the biggest blessings.”
Throughout the process of raising a pig, everyone has made memories that will last a lifetime. Andrew will graduate in May and hopes to continue his higher education at South Plains College.
