Cultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag Educators

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 proficiency experience. 

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, inspiration, and practical takeaways for members and advisors striving for excellence in their own programs.

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.

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 nerves, they share how they prepared, worked as a team, and represented their program at the highest level. 

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.

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 you plan for the busy FFA season ahead.

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 episode is full of helpful insights.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

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 strategies, and lessons learned along the way. This meaningful conversation highlights the power of advocacy, leadership, and perseverance within FFA, while offering valuable tips for members preparing for competitive events.

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 resources education in their own programs.

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 of encouragement.

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 challenges of starting and sustaining an aquaculture program, as well as their best advice for teachers looking to build one of their own.

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 running a floral business. Check out this episode for helpful tips to managing floriculture in your program. 

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 navigating challenges to offering advice for new teachers, this conversation highlights practical strategies for using educator effectiveness tools to improve instruction and student success.

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 a program, this conversation provides practical insights into bringing meat processing into ag education. 

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 running a successful greenhouse program. Whether you are looking to build a school greenhouse or just improve the one you have, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration from the field.

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 offers great resources for prepping a dairy Career Development Event team. 

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 SAE opportunities for all students regardless of their background. If you are looking to deepen your efforts on fostering a more inclusive program, this episode explores what meaningful, lasting DEI work looks like in agricultural education today.

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 becoming CASE-certified or just looking to enhance your ag curriculum, this episode offers valuable insights.

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 extended contract or looking to make the most of one, this episode offers helpful tips and firsthand experience.

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 ideas. 

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 from the field. Whether you're an ag teacher looking to integrate more strategies and activities into your curriculum or simply passionate about ag education, this episode offers inspiration and practical tools to help connect our students with the world of agriculture.

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 first hand experiences on obtaining subs, finding and creating resources, balancing school and life, and overall just great, supportive insight on navigating this situation. 

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 story about Jack’s work at his local Ace Hardware Store and hear all about how to inspire a student to achieve an award winning proficiency!

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 packed with practical advice to help you turn your ideas into funded projects. 

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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 officers to success. Whether you’re a new advisor or a seasoned one looking for fresh insights, this episode is full of valuable tips to help your officer team thrive! Also, don’t forget to check out the variety of officer training materials in the folder found in the WAAE Drive (Linked below).

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 you're an advisor, mentor, or aspiring state officer, this episode provides valuable guidance for navigating the path to state-level leadership!

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, or industry partner, this episode offers valuable insights into making Youth Apprenticeship a success in your community!

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 their success. Whether you're an FFA member striving for excellence or an advisor guiding students to reach their potential, this episode is filled with inspiration and practical advice for achieving big goals in FFA!

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 science. Whether you’re already teaching a food science course or looking to incorporate it into your curriculum, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas!

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. Whether you're new to differentiation, looking for fresh ideas, or struggling with special learning needs, this episode is full of actionable advice to help you reach every learner.

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 inspire students, this episode is packed with ideas and tips for bringing inquiry-based learning to life in any ag classroom!  

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 yourself trying to navigate tough situations with students in your program, check out our chat with Paul. 

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 teacher considering the next step in your career, this episode is packed with valuable insights into the paths available to you!

More Questions? Email the following representatives: 

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 alumni and supporters group or are looking to build one, you don’t want to miss this episode! 

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. Whether you're looking to boost your chapter's funds or just get some new ideas, this episode is full of practical fundraising advice to help your program grow.

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 inspiration for cultivating learning in any environment!

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 biotech course. Amelia provides an overview of her workshop and shares many awesome ideas, resources and activities.  

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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 teachers are a part of Wisconsin’s SAE for All Implementation Team and have been working with National FFA and The Council since January to determine best practices for improving how Wisconsin Ag Teachers can implement SAEs into their programs. They’re sharing lesson ideas, resources, Wisconsin’s plan of action and how you can become an SAE for All Certified Teacher. 

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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 teacher and looking for some guidance, or just interested in hearing a first year teacher's perspective, this is an episode you don't want to miss! 

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 more effective advocate for your program.

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 moving into the agriculture education profession from a different career, this episode is one you don’t want to miss! 

As you are gearing up for the Wisconsin State FFA Convention in 2 weeks, join us for this week's episode as we talk with Glenda Crook and Cheryl Zimmerman, Wisconsin State FFA Staff. They will share valuable information about major changes, opportunities for members, preparing students for competitions and tips and tricks to be successful whether this is your 1st or 40th FFA state convention. 

Interested in learning more about the Wisconsin Association of Agricultural Educators? Join us for this episode with Aaron Kilsdonk, current WAAE President, and Mary Handrich, WAAE President Elect. Aaron and Mary share all things WAAE including what to expect when attending WAAE PDC (Professional Development Conference) next month in Oshkosh! 

As the weather gets nicer, many ag teachers are hard at work getting ready for greenhouse and plant sales. If you are looking to start a greenhouse sale or in need of some advice to improve your current sale, join us for this episode of Cultivating Classrooms. We are joined by Waupun Ag teacher and FFA Advisor, Tari Costello, as she shares all about her popular plant sale and provides tips and tricks to managing a successful greenhouse.

Join us in this episode as we uncover tools and methods to recruiting more FFA members. In this discussion, Whitney Barnes, Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor at Bay Port High School shares her innovative strategies and resources that her FFA chapter uses to recruit and engage members. Whether you are struggling with FFA member involvement and communication or you are just looking for a way to amp up your FFA chapter, this episode will provide great insight.

Do you struggle trying to give your students the best learning experiences while also staying within your budget? Are you finding yourself spending your own money on classroom supplies? Join us for a chat with Mishicot Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor, Jamie Propson, as she shares extremely helpful money saving tips and ideas to stretch your classroom budget further.