Fruita Monument High School turned heads Friday morning as dozens of tractors rumbled through town and parked on campus, marking the third annual “Drive Your Tractor to School Day.” The student-led parade capped National FFA Week with pure Western Colorado pride.
Tradition Gains Speed in Just Three Years
What started as a small idea in 2022 has quickly become one of the most anticipated events in Fruita. Senior Kaley Gale, the main organizer, says the turnout keeps growing every year.
“We had way more tractors this year than last year,” Gale told reporters while sitting atop her green John Deere. “Kids who didn’t even bring tractors last year showed up with them this time. It’s blowing up.”
Students met at the Fruita Community Center before dawn, lined up their machines, and cruised down Highway 6 & 50 together. The convoy stretched for blocks as pickup trucks and excited parents followed behind.
Community Stops to Watch and Cheer
Motorists pulled over. People stepped out of gas stations. Phones came out everywhere along the route.
One driver heading to work rolled down his window and yelled, “That’s the coolest thing I’ve seen all week!”
Gale says the reactions make the early wake-up worth it. “People honk, wave, take pictures. Little kids go crazy when they see the big tractors. It feels good to show them where their food comes from.”
Keeping Farming Alive in a Changing Town
Fruita has deep agricultural roots. Peaches, corn, and cattle built this community. But as new neighborhoods replace orchards, many worry the next generation might forget that heritage.
That’s exactly why these students say events like this matter.
“Agriculture is still the heartbeat of Fruita,” Gale said. “We want people to remember that. Plus, FFA teaches leadership, public speaking, welding, mechanics, everything. It’s not just farming anymore.”
The national organization, once called Future Farmers of America, now welcomes students interested in everything from agribusiness to veterinary science to floral design.
More Than Just a Joyride
While the tractor parade grabs attention, FFA members spent the entire week educating classmates.
They hosted:
- A petting zoo with goats, chickens, and rabbits on campus
- A teacher breakfast with homemade goods
- A “Kiss the Pig” fundraiser (Principal lost and kissed a piglet)
- Daily announcements about agriculture facts
One freshman who joined FFA this year said seeing the tractors convinced him to sign up. “I thought it was just for farm kids. Turns out anybody can do it and it’s actually really fun.”
The Future Looks Bright from the Tractor Seat
Gale graduates this spring but says younger members are already planning an even bigger event for 2025.
“I want this to keep going long after I’m gone,” she said. “Maybe one day every school in Mesa County will do it.”
As the last tractor shut off its engine Friday morning and students headed to class with diesel on their boots and smiles on their faces, one thing was clear: in Fruita, the farming spirit is alive and running on full throttle.
What do you think of students driving tractors to school? Drop your thoughts below and tag #FFAproud if you’re sharing photos or videos, this story is blowing up across Colorado social media all weekend!
