AMBOY — The Lee County Farm Bureau recently co-sponsored a symposium aimed at strengthening regional agricultural education in collaboration with the Lee County Farm Bureau, Regional Education Office Classroom 47, and the Office of Coordination and Promotion of Agricultural Education.
An estimated 35 local school representatives attended the Nurturing Agricultural Connections symposium, held on March 1st at Tettens Grain in Dixon, to learn about the value of agricultural education and create comprehensive agricultural programs. I asked about the strategy.
“Agriculture is Illinois' largest industry, but these critical programs are often some of the first to be cut from public school district budget proposals,” said Lee CFB Manager Ashley Arbes. Stated. “Cultivating connections brings in administrators and local school leaders who don’t necessarily have a full agricultural background or understanding of the agricultural industry, and shows them the value of agricultural education and why it’s so important.” We aim to provide a rich experience'' that is influential in highlighting agriculture as a career path. ”
“Cultivating Connections in Agriculture” showcased the agricultural education experience and the uniqueness of the three circle model: agricultural education curriculum, FFA leadership, and supervised agricultural experiences. The program previewed what it takes to run a successful secondary agriculture program by spotlighting what happens inside and outside of the classroom, according to a news release.
“Providing support to agricultural education programs at all levels is essential to student success and teacher retention,” said Stacey Dinges, ROE #47 Pathway Coordinator. Easy access to make your farming program successful. ”
Attendees will learn about agricultural education, career, and leadership development through presentations by key state officials, current FFA students, including current agricultural educators, and breakout sessions with several industry leaders covering a variety of agricultural careers. We delved deep into the world of. Government, communications, precision technology, etc.
“Successful agricultural education programs require investment from all sectors of the community: students, parents, businesses, and school administration,” said Katie Pratt, Lee County Agriculture Class Coordinator and Amboy FFA Alumni Association Executive Director. said. “Agricultural education applies skills learned in other educational fields to real-world situations to make learning meaningful for all students.”
