Shows
Cultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsCASE Certifications with Kayla LoewenhagenIn 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.Check out https://www.case4learning.org/ for more info.2025-07-2827 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsNavigating Extended Contracts with Troy TalfordIn 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.SAE Visit Documentation2025-07-1432 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsMeet Your New WAAE Executive Director - Mary HandrichIn 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. More Questions? Email Mary at executivedirector@waae.com 2025-06-2323 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWisconsin Ag in the Classroom with Beth Schaefer & Travis SpragueIn 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...2025-06-0933 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsMaternity Leave & Planning with Abbey Meffert, Alyssa Engel, & Hanna MielkeTune 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. More Questions? Email Abbey at ameffert@deforestschools.org, Alyssa at a...2025-05-2633 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsNational Proficiency Award Winner - Jack Schuster (Ag Sales)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!More Questions? Email Paula at pbak...2025-05-1233 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsGrant Writing with Beth SchaeferIn 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. Links: Ag in the Classroom Grant Webinar Environmental Education GrantsMore Questions? Email Beth at bschaefer@wfbf.com2025-04-2834 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFFA Officer Training & Management with Tari CostelloIn 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 trai...2025-04-1433 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsHow to Get Hired with Josh Sween & Kasey PodollJoin 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 in interviews. Whether you’re a new graduate or an experienced teacher looking for a new opportunity, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you land your next role in agricultural education!2025-03-2432 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsState Officer Candidate Prep with Kim Forester & Cheryl ZimmermanTune 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!State FFA Officer Candidate Resources - Check out the State Officer Candidate Academy!2025-03-1035 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsYouth Apprenticeship with Kayla Darr & Stephanie DeVriesIn 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!More Questions? Email darrk@cesa5.org or devriess@cesa5.org. You can also reach out to your local CESA representative or the Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator in...2025-02-2429 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsNational Proficiency Award Winner - Kaleb Ellis (Diversified Agriculture)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!
More Q...2025-02-1023 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFood Science in the Classroom with Amanda SeichterJoin 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!
More Questions? Email Amanda at seicam@pasdwi.org 2025-01-2728 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsNational FFA Central Region Vice President - Mary SchrieberIn 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, advisor, or supporter, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the life of a National FFA Officer and Mary’s vision for the future of agricultural education.
Follow Mary’s National FFA Officer Journey on her...2025-01-1325 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsDifferentiating Lessons with Jillian BeatyIn 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.
More Questions? Email jlbeaty@oregonsd.net 2024-12-2334 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsInquiry Based Teaching with Becky Grabarski & Amie DiengerTune 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!
More Questions? Email grabarski_b@afasd.net or adienger@elkmound.k12.wi.us 2024-12-0929 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsConflict Management with Paul MajorsIn 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.
More Questions? Email pmajors@wwusd.org 2024-11-2536 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsContinuing Education with Dr. Ketterling, Dr. Graham, Dr. Buttles & Professor BockenhauerIn 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:
University of Wisconsin - River Falls: james.graham@uwrf.edu or j...2024-11-1124 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFFA Alumni & Supporters with Bailey Creamer & David KruseAre 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!
More Questions? Email creaba@elkhorn.k12.wi us or kru...2024-10-2829 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFundraising with Beth Babcock & Melinda GoplinIn 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.
More Questions? Email bbabcock@maustonschools.org or goplinm@whitehallsd.k12.wi.us 2024-10-1433 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsTeaching with Limited Resources with Kristi Puntney & Brenna BabcockIn 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!
More Questions? Email babcockb@portage.k12.wi.us or kristinapuntney@waunakee.k12.wi.us 2024-09-2324 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWAAE Workshops - So You’re New to Biotech… with Amelia HaydenJoin 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.
Resource Links:
Workshop Slidedeck
Workshop outline / links
Weekly...2024-09-0915 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWhat is SAE for All?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 prog...2024-08-2625 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFirst Year Highs & Lows with Carisa & JackieIn 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!
2024-08-1236 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWAAE Workshops - Working with Wool & Appraising Timber with Kally KochJoin 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:
Working with Wool By Kally Koch
Looking for something hands-on to do for your sheep unit? This workshop will show you how to take wool from the sheep and turn it into yarn using items you can pick...2024-07-2236 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsTime Management with Sammy & EmmaIn 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.wi.us or svandeurzen@wdpsd.com2024-07-0932 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsAdvocating for Your Program with Linda Sattler & Troy TalfordIn 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.
Looking for Resources? Visit https://wisconsinaged.org/page.aspx?ID=2878
More Questions? Email troy.talford@saukprairieschools.org or sattlin@rbsd.k12.wi.us 2024-06-2432 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsAlternative Teaching License Pathways with Shalynn Domke & Sally LadstenIn 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!
More Questions? Email sdomke@antigoschools.org or Sally.Ladsten@dpi.wi.gov
2024-06-1031 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWI FFA State Convention Planning with Cheryl Zimmerman & Glenda CrookAs 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.
More Questions? Email gcrook@wisconsinffa.org or czimmerman@wisconsinffa.org
To Download the Wisconsin State FFA Convention App:
Visit https://m.wisconsinffa.org/
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Cho...2024-05-2722 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsWAAE PDC with Mary Handrich & Aaron KilsdonkInterested 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!
Want to know more? Visit https://wisconsinaged.org/about-waae & make sure to register for PDC by June 15th! 2024-05-1325 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsGreenhouse Sale Tips & Tricks with Tari CostelloAs 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.
More Questions? Email Tari at tcostello@waupun.k12.wi.us
2024-04-2229 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsFFA Member Recruitment with Whitney BarnesJoin 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.
More Questions? Email Whitney at whitbarn@hssdschools.org 2024-04-0826 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsClassroom Money Saving Tips with Jamie PropsonDo 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.
More Questions? Email Jamie at jpropson@mishicot.k12.wi.us
Resource Document:
Here are a few ways to stretch your classroom dollars
2024-03-2523 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsCareer Development Events with Jordan DonnerbauerIn this episode, we are joined by Jordan Donnerbauer, Wisconsin Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor known for his great successes with FFA Career Development Events. Tune into our conversation with Jordan as he shares his wealth of knowledge about CDE recruitment methods, preparation and coaching tools, and tips and tricks that have made him so successful in the world of Career Development Events.
More Questions? Email Jordan at jdonnerbauer@s-bschools.org2024-03-1121 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsSAEs in the Classroom with Kori & NathanielSupervised Agricultural Experiences are so important to each of our programs, but can be a daunting task to take on. In this episode, Wisconsin Ag Teachers, Nathaniel and Kori, walk us through how they implement SAE for All in their classrooms. Whether you’re new to SAEs or just looking to change up how you teach about SAEs, this episode is for you!
More Questions? Email Nathaniel at nnolden@sdwd.k12.wi.us or Kori at blank.kori@cashton.k12.wi.us
Resource Links:
SAE - Shared Folder2024-02-2621 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsProficiency Award Tips & Tricks with Sandy Dykes & Tim HeegAre you new to proficiency awards? Are you looking for a way to make your life easier when it comes to submitting applications? In this episode, experienced teachers from Wisconsin, Sandy Dykes and Tim Heeg, share their resources, tips, and tricks that have helped their students reach success when submitting proficiency award applications.
More Questions? Email Sandy at sandra.dykes222@gmail.com or Tim at heeg@marshfieldschools.org
Resource Links:
SAE Survey
2024-02-1228 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsSchool Farms with Rachel SauvolaStarting and maintaining a school farm can seem like a daunting task, but Rachel Sauvola, Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor in New Richmond, WI, shares how she makes it work. Feeding livestock, organizing volunteers, and applying for grant money are just a few of the insights Rachel shares through her interview.
More Questions? Email Rachel at RSauvola@newrichmond.k12.wi.us
2024-01-2229 minCultivating Classrooms: Insights from Ag EducatorsPreparing for LDEs with Melinda GoplinAre you looking for new ways to prepare your students for Leadership Development Events? In this episode, Melinda Goplin, Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor from Whitehall, WI, shares her tips and tricks for setting students up for success in LDEs.
More Questions? Email Melinda at goplinm@whitehallsd.k12.wi.us2024-01-0822 min