Relevance
The 4-H program in Vermont provides positive learn-by-doing experiences and opportunities for youths, ages 5-18, inclusive of gender, race, background, and abilities. Through club work, projects, and participation in programs and events at the local, state, regional, and national level, 4-H helps young people develop valuable leadership and life skills. It also empowers them to succeed as they build confidence in themselves as they find their strengths and their voice to express who they are and learn that what they say and do does matter.
Response
University of Vermont Extension (¶¶Òõ̽̽) 4-H Livestock Educator, Wendy Sorrell, remembers the first time she met Shyanne in the 4-H horse world about five years ago. Shyanne's mother had called to make an accommodation for her before one of the 4-H contests. Understanding words that are written down is something Shyanne struggles with, and she often requires help writing in a legible, timely manner. But this 4-H'er also knows her horse facts and wanted to compete in a statewide equine event, the State 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl. This annual contest consists of several rounds of oral questions on all aspects of the horse industry that 4-H members answer by buzzing in. It requires no writing, just listening, and pushing a button. It's fast-paced, and the first to buzz in with the correct answer scores points. It's an event that Shyanne can compete in independently and without accommodation.
Results
Shyanne was one of 60 4-H members who participated in this year's contest, held in April at ¶¶Òõ̽̽. Although the top 10 scorers in each age division receive rosette ribbons, the stakes are higher for competitors in the senior division (ages 14-18) as the four highest overall scorers earn a spot on the state quiz bowl team. Sixteen-year-old Shyanne challenged herself even though this wasn't her "strongest event," as she put it. The top eight seniors made it to the final round of 50 questions. By the end, only four had a positive score, and Shyanne was one of them. She turned around to face Wendy saying, "I made it! I made the team! I didn't think I would make it, but I did." Wendy recalls, "That moment when she was so surprised and shouted, her happiness brought tears to my eyes." This was possibly the biggest moment of her 4-H career so far. In November she traveled with the State 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl Team to Louisville, Kentucky, to compete in the national quiz bowl contest at the 2022 Eastern National 4-H Horse Roundup. The Vermont team came in eighth overall out of 17 teams. Shyanne found a spark with the State 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl. She tried something new, strengthened her confidence, and discovered that she can excel all on her own.
Public Value Statement
Young people need positive youth development programming, such as through 4-H. It lays the foundation necessary for them to thrive. Key to these opportunities are developmentally appropriate relationships that challenge and encourage growth, and engagement in high quality experiences that help youths find their spark in a safe, supportive, and culturally relevant environment.