Cultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag Educators

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with the Wisconsin FFA Managing Director, Jen Russell, to get to know her and learn more about her new role with Wisconsin FFA. She shares important updates for advisors and members, including dates to keep on your radar, answers to frequently asked questions, and other reminders and changes happening across the state. Tune in to help you stay...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with an ag teacher and SAE committee chair Nathaniel Nolden to discuss the upcoming changes to FFA’s SAE award system at both the state and national levels. We break down the transition from Proficiency Awards to SAE Awards, what’s changing, what teachers and students need to know, and how these updates may impact SAE development and recogniti...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with a group of new ag teachers to reflect on their first year in the classroom. They share what helped them stay organized, the strategies and routines that worked, the things they would do differently, and the lessons they learned along the way. From navigating the many moving parts of an ag program to finding their footing as a new teacher,...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we chat with Missy Goers, the new DPI AFNR Education Consultant and State FFA Advisor to learn a little more about her and welcome her into her new role at DPI. She shares updates, new initiatives, and opportunities for ag teachers, along with an inside look at how DPI and her role can support teachers, programs, and FFA chapters across the state. Make su...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , your hosts Emma and Sammy zoomed into UW-Platteville Ag Ed Society’s 1st meeting of the new school year for a special edition of Ask an Ag Teacher. From what to expect during student teacher to how our classrooms have changed since our 1st year, we’re able to answer a handful of questions for these pre-service teachers. Whether you’re a pre-service teach...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Erika Schade, the Community and Schools Manager from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, to learn more about the resources and opportunities they offer to ag teachers. We discuss classroom resources, educational programs, industry connections, and ways teachers can bring Wisconsin’s dairy industry into their classrooms. Whether you teach dairy sc...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Gwen Boettcher (DeForest Area High School) and Candice Franks (Delavan-Darien School District) to explore how they teach veterinary science in their programs. They share their favorite hands-on activities, resources and classroom strategies for engaging students while preparing them for careers in animal health. Whether you're buildin...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with Dr. Becky Haddad, Assistant Professor of Agriculture Education at University of Nebraska-Lincoln about her idea of the “Difficult Less.” We discuss how to say “no” without necessarily losing out on opportunities and how to thoughtfully shift responsibilities to students. We explore practical ways to manage the many demands of teaching and adv...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , we are joined by ag teacher Gretchen Rozeboom to talk about using standards based grading in the classroom. Gretchen and one of our hosts, Emma Huber, share how they communicate learning targets, assess student mastery, and navigate the challenges and benefits of moving beyond the traditional points based grading system. If your school has already implem...

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...