Hogs, hard work, and hands-on learning take center stage as Killeen ISD proudly hosted its 1st Pig Palooza at the KISD Livestock Facility, marking an exciting new tradition in agricultural education. The high-energy, hands-on swine show provided student exhibitors with the opportunity to compete in a “mini jackpot”–style event, showcasing their dedication, livestock skills, and commitment to excellence.
Students competed across three swine classes — Lightweight Cross, Heavyweight Cross, and Duroc — demonstrating months of preparation, responsibility, and hard work.
In the Duroc division, Osvaldo Camacho (CHS FFA) earned 1st Place and Champion Duroc, followed by Connor Gay (EHS FFA) as 2nd Place and Reserve Champion Duroc.
The Lightweight Cross division featured Ethan Parks (EHS FFA) taking 1st Place and Champion Lightweight Cross, Jeremiah Green (KCC FFA) earning 2nd Place and Reserve Champion Lightweight Cross, and Alyssa Weeden (HHHS FFA) placing 3rd.
In the Heavyweight Cross division, Jara Penfold (KCC FFA) claimed 1st Place and Champion Heavyweight Cross, followed by Wesley McGlothlin (HHHS FFA) as 2nd Place and Reserve Champion Heavyweight Cross, with Kimberly Trevino (KCC FFA) earning 3rd Place.
Following class competitions, the champions returned to the ring for the Final Drive, where Jara Penfold (KCC FFA) was named Grand Overall Champion Swine, and Osvaldo Camacho (CHS FFA) earned Reserve Grand Overall Champion Swine.
The event also included a Swine Showmanship Contest, recognizing students’ handling skills and animal care. Ethan Parks (EHS FFA) was awarded Champion Swine Showmanship, while Wesley McGlothlin (HHHS FFA) earned Reserve Champion Swine Showmanship.
Pig Palooza was judged by Mr. Damion Turner, Ag Extension Agent with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services and Beef Cattle Specialist for Prairie View A&M University. A respected livestock judge and agriculture podcaster, Mr. Turner went above and beyond by remaining after the show to host a coaching session and question-and-answer discussion, offering students valuable mentorship and real-world insight.
The event was further enhanced by strong community support, with KISD parents generously providing breakfast for exhibitors, students, teachers, judges, and guests, creating a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere.
Overall, the Pig Palooza was a resounding success, highlighting student achievement, community involvement, and the powerful impact of agricultural education in Killeen ISD. Killeen ISD Ag Advisors look forward to growing this event into a lasting annual tradition that continues to inspire and educate future agricultural leaders.
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Special thanks to Ms. Winters, KCC Ag Advisor, for her contributions to this article.