If you noticed the line of tractors rolling down the road and into the Xenia High School parking lot on Friday morning, you caught a glimpse of the FFA's annual tradition with a mission.

Each year in recognition of National Farm Safety Week, XHS students participate in the annual Tractor Drive-in Day. This morning, FFA members met up with local farmers from the Old Timers' Festival and drove their family tractors to school to shine a light on agricultural safety and highlight the importance of sharing the road.

Fall harvest season is here, which means local farmers will be moving heavy machinery between fields much more frequently. Because tractors travel at much slower speeds than regular traffic, everyday drivers need to stay extra alert on rural roads.

"This is the season when you'll see a lot more agricultural traffic," says Emma Slone, XHS senior and FFA President. "We just want to remind everyone in the community to pay attention, slow down, and be patient when you encounter a tractor on local roads. Taking a few extra seconds can save lives."

Quick Safety Tips for Passing Farm Machinery:

• Slow Down Early: As soon as you spot a slow-moving vehicle, reduce your speed immediately.
• Be Patient: Drivers of farm equipment often pull over when it’s safe to let traffic pass, but they need time and a clear shoulder to do so.
• Check Before Passing: Never pass a tractor on a curve, near an intersection, or when double yellow lines are present. Make sure the driver isn't making a wide left turn before you attempt to pass.

Let’s support our students and local farming families, and keep Xenia’s roads safe for everyone!

See more photos in the online photo gallery.