What do you love most about being an ag teacher? To facilitate the discovery of agriculture in the hearts and minds of my student is what I love most about being a classroom teacher.  It is awe inspiring to watch all the light bulbs go on when students learn about the vast agriculture complex.  In addition, traveling with students to conferences, field days, and as exhibitors is the best part of my job. 

What is your biggest challenge as an ag teacher?  Finding “balance” is the greatest challenge I face.  Balancing time between school, family and personal time is difficult to manage with such a demanding profession.

What have you learned thus far in your teaching career that you wish you would have known when you first began teaching?  Having children of my own, helped me to fully understand the complexities of adolescent life.  As well as the concept that all children are not created the same.  Being a mother has made me such a better teacher and person.

What advice would you give a novice teacher entering this profession now?  I would encourage them to have pride in their work.  Whatever you choose to undertake (CDE’s, SAE’s) do them with 100% effort.  Commit yourself to the processes, learn from your mistakes, ask for help, and don’t take on more than you can commit excellence to.  

What personal qualities or abilities do you think are important to being successful in this profession?  Having a positive "can do" attitude is critical in this profession.  Many times you will encounter challenges, frustrations, “No’s” and a positive attitude maybe the only thing that can or will get you through.  Worry about the things you can control, let go of the things you cannot, and focus on what is in the best interest of your students.

What specific skills are important to being successful in this profession?

• Organization 

• Time management

• Follow through

• Leadership

• Communicator

• Classroom Management

What most prepared you for being an agriculture educator?  My own personal agriculture education experience most prepared me to be an educator.  I was fortunate to have a great ag teacher, FFA advisor, and mentor who was passionate about his job.  His excitement was contiguous and motivating.   The success I experienced in high school was the primary reason I became an agriculture teacher.

Describe ag teaching in one to two words.  Inspiring