Cultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag Educators

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms we talk about all things middle school ag. Emma and Sammy are joined by middle school ag teacher, Madelyn Green. Emma and Madelyn share their best tips and tricks for teaching middle school agriculture and navigating a middle school FFA. Tune in to hear some great insight on keeping middle schoolers engaged, our favorite ways to introduce agriculture and w...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , your hosts Emma and Sammy take on a collection of “What I Wish I Knew Sooner” topics from their own experiences in ag ed. From keeping students engaged in required classes and developing meaningful SAE experiences to planning effective FFA meetings and making the most of State FFA Convention, they share practical tips, lessons learned, and advice they wi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with ag teacher, Gwen Boettcher and iCEV representative, Leigh Robertson to explore the Wisconsin Technical Incentive Grants and the opportunities they provide for ag ed programs. We discuss what the grants are, why they matter, and how they can help teachers expand access to industry recognized certifications and technical skill development f...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , we sit down with Mark Cournoyer to discuss how he teaches tractor and farm safety in his program. From hands-on demonstrations and real-world examples to partnerships with local organizations and industry professionals, Mark shares strategies for making safety lessons meaningful. We also talk about how to encourage students to take farm safety seriously...

We are back with Glenda Crook & Cheryl Zimmerman of Wisconsin FFA to share important FFA updates for advisors and members. They cover upcoming conference information, contest and award updates, some common FFA questions they are getting, and key deadlines to keep on your radar. This episode is a helpful resource for staying informed and prepared as you plan for the busy FFA season ahead. We wi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with a National FFA Proficiency Award winner, Ava Medo from Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School and her advisor, Matt Christian to explore the journey behind earning national recognition in her Goat Production Proficiency. Ava shares insights into her project and growth, while Matt discusses strategies for supporting and guiding a high-level pro...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview National FFA Proficiency Award winner, Hannah Oleson from Adams-Friendship High School and her advisor, Becky Grabarski. They share the story behind Hannah's beef project, the work and growth that led her to the national level, and the advisor’s role in supporting a high-quality proficiency experience. This episode offers insight, inspira...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, Emma and Sammy take some time to answer questions from preservice teachers about FFA and agricultural education. From advice for getting started to insights on managing an ag program and supporting FFA members, we share our experiences and perspectives to help future ag teachers feel more prepared and confident as they enter the profession. More Questions...

This week on Cultivating Classrooms, we’re celebrating a team that made it all the way to the national stage. We interviewed the Chippewa Falls FFA Horse Evaluation CDE team that earned 2nd place at National FFA Convention, along with their advisor, Caitlin Foster, to hear about their journey through regionals, state, and nationals. From unique and intense practice opportunities to contest-day ner...

On this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with retired ag teachers Sandy Dykes and Dan Ziegler to talk honestly about the dos and don’ts of retirement. From lessons learned to things they wish they’d done sooner, this conversation is full of practical advice, reflection, and wisdom for educators at any stage of their career. More Questions? Email sandra.dykes222@gmail.com or danziegle...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Glenda Crook & Cheryl Zimmerman of Wisconsin FFA to share important FFA updates for advisors and members. They cover upcoming conference information, contest and award updates, some common FFA questions they are getting, and key deadlines to keep on your radar. This episode is a helpful resource for staying informed and prepared as yo...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, Emma and I talk through some familiar, free resources that many ag teachers already know and use from time to time. We share our personal favorites, how we use them in our classrooms and FFA programs, and ideas for getting even more value out of these go to tools. If you’re looking for practical ways to make the most of resources you already have, this ep...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , we interview National FFA Prepared Public Speaking Contest winner, Josie Roberts from Portage FFA, who shares the story behind her powerful speech on mental health and farmer suicide. In addition to discussing the impact and inspiration behind her topic, she walks us through her journey to the national stage, including the preparation process, practice s...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , we talk with an ag teacher about teaching natural resources in their program. They share what a typical course looks like, essential resources and materials, and how they bring lessons to life through hands-on learning and field experiences. We also discuss connecting instruction to CDEs and their advice for teachers looking to develop or expand natural...

In this “Ask and Ag Teacher” episode of Cultivating Classrooms, Emma and Sammy tackle your questions about all things ag ed. We talk about navigating FFA involvement, finding balance as a new parent in the world of ag education, and share a few practical time-management tips to help you survive (and thrive!) in the busy seasons. Join us for some honest advice, practical insights, and a whole lot o...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with ag teachers Kaleb Santy and Jim Melby about the unique role aquaculture plays in their program. From setting up and maintaining a school aquaculture system to raising different species and engaging students in hands-on management, they share what their curriculum looks like and how it connects to real-world careers. We also dive into the chal...

This episode of Cultivating Classrooms features Mishicot ag teachers Jamie Propson and Katie Koeppel who share their experiences teaching floriculture and running a thriving floral design business alongside their program. They share how classroom lessons can connect to real-world applications, the skills students gain through their hands-on floral work, and the unique opportunities that come with...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with ag teachers, Crystal Retzlaff and Kimberly Yohn,  to talk about educator effectiveness and what it looks like in their districts. They share how they create meaningful SLOs for all students, develop PPGs that reflect both growth and the unique nature of ag education, and use professional development to strengthen their teaching. From navi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with ag teachers, Beth Babcock and Kathryn Lampi,  about how they teach meat processing in their programs. They share what their courses look like, the partnerships and resources that support their work, and the steps they take to keep students safe in the lab. From connecting lessons to CDEs to offering advice for teachers interested in starting...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we welcome Ag Teacher, Walter Taylor, from Oconto Falls High School as he shares about the rewards and challenges of teaching with and managing a school greenhouse. Wally provides insight on how he incorporates greenhouse management and work into his curriculum, keeps students engaged with hands-on learning, and handles the day-to-day operations of runnin...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with ag teachers Kelly Hubert and Cierra Essock to talk about teaching dairy science in the classroom and beyond. They share how they bring the dairy industry to life for students through hands-on labs, real-world experiences, and creative lessons. This episode provides awesome insight to help you teach dairy science in your program as well as...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, have a thoughtful discussion with Sun Prairie ag teachers, and DEI Committee Chairs, Krist Kvalheim & Josh Capadarco. They share with us how they promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in their classrooms, FFA’s and ag programs. They share personal experiences, intentional practices, and strategies for creating welcoming environments and providing S...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview CASE-certified ag teacher, Kayla Loewenhagen, to dive into the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) model. She shares her experience with the certification process, how CASE has transformed her teaching, and the benefits it brings to her students through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Whether you're curious about becomi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with Sauk Prairie Ag Teacher, Troy Talford, to discuss the importance of extended contracts and how to effectively advocate for them. He shares how having extra days supports his program growth, student success, and community engagement, along with strategies for presenting the need to school boards and admin. Whether you're considering an extende...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms we sit down with the new Wisconsin Association of Agricultural Educators (WAAE) Executive Director, Mary Handrich. Mary shares her goals, upcoming initiatives and plans to support and strengthen agricultural education across the state. Tune in to hear how she plans to advocate for ag teachers, expand opportunities, and lead the organization with fresh idea...