What do you love most about being an ag teacher? My favorite thing about ag teaching is being able to share the world of agriculture both inside and outside of the classroom. I enjoy all of the extracurricular activities and hands-on, real world experiences that we provide our students. Every year provides something new since the field of agriculture is every changing. It keeps teaching fun and interesting for both my students and me.

What is your biggest challenge as an ag teacher? I think my biggest challenge with being an ag teacher is learning how to balance my work life and my family life. In Agriculture, your work is never complete and I am constantly trying to stay ahead. However, I am learning to be present with my family and my new baby and turn off the work brain. Work will be there in the morning and my focus is making family time my priority.

 What have you learned thus far in your teaching career that you wish you would have known when you first began teaching?  I have learned many things since starting my teaching career. Primarily, I have learned to expect the unexpected. It is impossible to prepare for every situation, however, I have learned to go with the flow and make the best of every situation. In the midst of chaos and change, growth happens. Each experience brings new strategies.

What advice would you give a novice teacher entering this profession now?  Building positive rapport with students, peers and stakeholders is the most important aspect of teaching.  Once you have that, everything else is falls in line.  Building positive rapport brings respect and limits unnecessary stress.  The relationships you build will only enhance the knowledge you have and allows you to share that knowledge in a meaningful and impactful way. 

 What personal qualities or abilities do you think are important to being successful in this profession?  In order to be a successful Ag Teacher, you must be able to manage your time and workload efficiently. You must be an excellent multitasker because you have many things occurring  simultaneously. Activities range from setting up the classroom, to working on the school farm or even taking students to various events. Being an effective Ag Teacher requires hard work and dedication but also a balance with your personal life so you avoid burn out.

What most prepared you for being an agriculture educator?  Growing up on a farm gave me real-world experience that I incorporate into my daily teaching activities. My experience as a farmer has enriched the classroom experience for my students. Additionally, coaching sports has helped me build rapport with my students and connect with them on a personal level.

 If you could relive one of your most memorable days as a teacher, which day would it be and why?  I would want to relive my very first day teaching. Coming from industry, I had absolutely no clue what to expect on my first day. My veteran teacher partner gave me a crash course on classroom expectations and handouts that are vital on the first day. The rush of excitement and nervous tension was a once in a lifetime experience. I am grateful for that day and appreciate all the support and experiences I have had since.

Describe ag teaching in one to two words. Rewarding lifestyle.