Cultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag Educators

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with the Coordinator for WI Ag in the Classroom, Beth Schaefer, and one of the program’s passionate ambassadors, Travis Sprague, to discuss how they’re bringing agricultural literacy to students across the state. They share what WI Ag in the Classroom has to offer including engaging classroom resources, outreach strategies, and success stories...

Tune into this episode to hear a whole hearted discussion on the topic of maternity leave and long term sub planning, which Emma and Sammy recently got to experience first hand, both welcoming their first babies! Cultivating Classrooms welcomes Abbey Meffert, Alyssa Engel, & Hanna Mielke, three Wisconsin ag teachers who are familiar with planning for maternity or long term leaves. Listen to fi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview National FFA Proficiency Award winner Jack Schuster of the Marshall FFA Chapter and his FFA advisor, Ms. Paula Bakken to learn about the hard work and dedication behind his achievement. They share insights into Jack’s winning project in Ag Sales, the challenges he overcame, and the role of mentorship in their success. Tune in to an inspiring...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, We chat with Ag in the Classroom Coordinator, Beth Schaefer, about the art of grant writing. From finding the right grant opportunities to crafting compelling applications, she shares expert tips and strategies for securing funding to enhance your agricultural education programs. Whether you are a teacher, advisor, or program leader, this episode is packe...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Tari Costello, retired ag teacher and now Executive Director of the Wisconsin FFA Alumni & Supporters as she shares her wealth of experience in training and managing FFA officer teams. From building strong leadership skills to fostering teamwork and accountability, Tari offers practical advice and time-tested strategies for guiding of...

Join us for this episode of Cultivating Classrooms as we sit down with administrators from Emma’s stomping grounds of Portage School District. Middle School Principal, Kasey Podoll, and School Superintendent Josh Sween, provide us with practical knowledge about how to get hired as an ag teacher. They share insights into the hiring process, tips for showcasing your passion, and what they look for i...

Tune into this episode of Cultivating Classrooms , as we talk with Kim Forrester from iCEV and Cheryl Zimmerman from State FFA about what it takes to prepare an FFA member for the role of being a state FFA officer. They share insights into the selection process, tips for developing leadership skills, and advice for guiding candidates through interviews, speeches, and other requirements. Whether yo...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview CESA 5 representatives Kayla Darr and Stephanie DeVries to explore the opportunities available through Youth Apprenticeship programs for high school agriculture students. Learn how these programs connect students with real-world experiences, develop their skills, and prepare them for careers in agriculture. Whether you're an educator, student...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview National FFA Proficiency Award winner and “Super Farmer” Kaleb Ellis from Cochrane - Fountain City and his FFA advisor, Ms. Chris Jumbeck to learn about the hard work and dedication behind his achievement. They share insights into Kaleb’s winning project in Diversified Agriculture, the challenges he overcame, and the role of mentorship in the...

Join us for this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, where we dive into the fascinating world of food science with an experienced ag teacher, Amanda Seichter who brings this subject to life in the classroom. Amanda shares with us insight on engaging lab activities to real-world applications, and shares her favorite lessons, teaching strategies, and tips for sparking students’ interest in food scien...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Mary Schrieber, National FFA Officer and former Wisconsin State FFA Officer to hear about her journey, experiences, and insights from serving in this prestigious leadership role. She shares stories from the road, lessons learned while representing FFA on a national level, and advice for aspiring leaders. Whether you're an FFA member, advi...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview an inspiring ag teacher who shares her strategies for differentiating lessons to meet the diverse needs of her students. From modifying  activities and lessons for students with specialized learning plans, to creating inclusive and engaging experiences, she provides practical tips for ensuring every student can thrive in the classroom. Whethe...

Tune into this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, where we talk with Becky Grabarski and Amie Dienger, two ag teachers who are making an impact through inquiry-based teaching in their classrooms. They share how they use lessons that encourage student-led exploration and deepen understanding through real world applications. If you are interested in innovative teaching methods that engage and inspir...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with experienced ag teacher, Paul Majors, who shares his approach to handling challenging situations and resolving conflicts within FFA chapters and ag programs. From student disputes to leadership challenges, Paul offers some practical advice, real-world examples, and strategies for maintaining a positive and cohesive environment. If you find...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we chat with representatives from UW Platteville and River Falls about the programs they offer for current and aspiring ag teachers looking to further their education. Learn about advanced degrees, professional development opportunities, and specialized courses designed to enhance skills and open new doors in agricultural education. If you're an ag teache...

Are you looking for ways to strengthen your relationship with your local FFA Alumni and Supporters group? Join us for this episode of Cultivating Classrooms as we chat with Bailey Creamer and David Kruse at Elkhorn about what their alumni does for them, the roles that they and their students play in the alumni and tips to effectively working with an alumni and supporters group. If you have an alum...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with ag teachers, Beth Babcock & Melinda Goplin, and explore creative and effective fundraising techniques used by their FFA chapters and ag programs to support their activities and initiatives. From the more traditional fundraising methods to unique approaches, our guests share their success stories and tips for building strong fundraisers. W...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with two innovative ag teachers, Kristi Puntney and Brenna Babcock, who share their experiences and strategies for teaching agriculture with limited resources and lab space. Discover how they creatively adapt lessons, engage students, and foster hands-on learning despite the challenges. Join us for a conversation packed with insight and inspir...

Join us as we chat with Amelia Hayden, Ag teacher and FFA advisor at Osseo-Fairchild about the workshop she presented at the Wisconsin Association of Agricultural Educators (WAAE) Professional Development Conference this past summer. “So You’re New to Biotech” is a must listen for any teachers who may be teaching a new biotechnology class or any teacher looking to spruce up their already existing...

In this episode, Emma is joined by Julie Ketterling, professor at UW-River Falls and Nathaniel Nolden, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor at Wisconsin Dells High School as they discuss Wisconsin's plan to implement SAE for All across the state. Many agriculture teachers are familiar with Supervised Agricultural Experiences, but don’t necessarily know what SAE for All entails. These three teac...

In this episode of cultivating classrooms, Emma and Sammy are joined by Carisa Cleven and Jackie Rosenbush, Wisconsin ag teachers that just finished up their first year of teaching. Join us for this fun and upbeat conversation of first year ag teaching highs and lows, as well as hear Carisa and Jackie share what has helped them the most and some advice they have for new teachers. If you are a new...

Join us for today's episode of Cultivating Classrooms as we are joined by Kally Koch, Ag Teacher in Riverdale WI, as she shares a recap of two workshops that she presented at the Wisconsin Association of Ag Educators (WAAE) Professional Development Conference. Kally gives an overview and shares resources from her workshops: Working with Wool and Appraising Timber. WAAE Workshop Descriptions: W...

In today’s episode, your Cultivating Classrooms hosts, Emma and Sammy take some time to share their own advice about different time management techniques that work for them at home and in the classroom. We dive into prioritizing tasks, different tools that make our lives easier, and bring in some fantastic ideas from the Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi.  More Questions? Email hubere@portage.k12.w...

In today's episode, we dive into the vital topic of advocating for our agricultural education programs. Our guests, Troy Talford and Linda Sattler, leaders of the WAAE Advocacy Committee and experienced educators, share their insights and strategies for championing agricultural programs in schools and communities. This episode will provide valuable tools and motivation to help you become a mor...

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Shalynn Domke, an ag teacher with an alternative license and Sally Ladsten at DPI to discuss entering the agriculture classroom with alternative pathways and licenses. Shalynn shares her experience and advice coming from a different teaching position into ag ed, while Sally provides information about licensing. If you are interested in mo...