April 2024 Superintendent's Superstar

Patrick Guizar, age 21, is a student in the FCSS Adult Transition Program at Kerman High School. He has been in Kerman Unified School District for most of his educational career and is currently in Mr. Hawkins’ ATP class. Patrick is unique and an amazing young man because he is autistic and has overcome so many obstacles in his life. 

He became interested in joining the Future Farmers of America because both his mom and uncle participated in FFA when they were in school. Patrick wanted to join FFA and with the support of his family and his teachers, he became very involved. He has raised animals and shown them at the Fresno Fair during high school. He completed all the requirements and ended up receiving the American FFA Degree in the fall of 2023, the highest honor for anyone involved in FFA, with less than one percent of FFA members achieving it. 

In addition to his success with FFA, he is also the president of the Kerman Autism Group that participates in community events, such as the Kerman Autism Walk and the Kerman Harvest Festival Parade. Additionally, he is very creative and is known for making intricate characters with pipe cleaners. He is a role model for individuals involved in FFA and for children with autism in and around his community of Kerman. 

In an interview at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, he gave the following advice to anyone wanting to achieve their American FFA Degree: “It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just try to do your best, and then you will accomplish your goals.” This heartfelt advice can be used by anyone as they set out to achieve their goals.