Happy National Teach Ag Day

September 24th is National Teach Ag Day!

I am so grateful for the many Ag teachers that have influenced my life. Being an Ag teacher is a blessing and a curse. It is a sun up to sun down job, that sometimes ends in frustration. Other times it is fun, inspirational, and amazing to watch kids grow from nervous but excited freshman to confident and polished seniors.

I'm not sure many jobs are able to watch such a rapid positive change of teenagers. I think frequently about how kids are my favorite part of being an Ag teacher (they should be, right?!). I'm not sure I'd stay up till midnight helping students with presentations at State Conference or get up at 3:30am to take students to Greenhand Conference, if it weren't for the kids. I see potential in many of my students to become Ag teachers, and mostly they have no clue. The ones with the passion, consideration, dedication, and love of agriculture. 

Deciding to be an Ag teacher, always seemed like a back up plan while growing up. It wasn't until my junior year of high school that I decided it would become my future career. I can say confidentiality that I had no idea what I was getting myself into. It has definitely been the best thing I've done in my life. Fortunately, I'm met some great people along the way. They have become inspiration, guidance, and source of reason in many situations.

Thank you to each of the Ag teachers that have impacted my life by mentoring, and inspiring me to always do better. 

Here are a few!

These are the reasons I'm an Ag teacher:

Compassion

Silly Faces & Burrito Bonding

Teamwork & Trust

Occasional Naps from hard work 

Competitive Spirit (at John's Incredible Pizza)

Impeccable Style! 

Where is the school year going?!

Does life ever slow down? I feel like the longer I teach, the faster life zooms by.

This year I took on our school's leadership class in addition to my regular Ag classes. I was very nervous to tackle this class, especially while teaching another new class. In all complete honesty, it has been one of the most challenging things I have done as a teacher. 

Daily, I think about why it has been so difficult  to wrap my head around the schedules, posters, ASB meetings, rallies, etc. I have come to the conclusion that it's the kids and my lack of experience. The kids are genuinely good kids, but I've had to start from scratch with many of the students with teaching basic concepts like responsibility and follow through. Luckily I have some FFA kids in the class, so they have been instrumental in helping set the example for being a leader in class. 

Today, an FFA kid gave a practice workshop to the leadership class. I was amazed that when she asked them to give another student a power clap, they had no clue what that meant. It occurred to me that many of the best techniques, like power clapping are not done in many classes (probably none) except that in Ag classes and FFA conferences they are traditions for building people up to be leaders. Something as simple as a clap, changed the attitude of some students. After the workshop concluded they asked to learn more claps. 

It's crazy to me that we worry so much about curriculum, standards, tests, AP this or that, yet we rarely encourage students to take classes that make them better people. From responsibility to follow through and rigorous academics to person connections, FFA could quite possibly be the most genius organization that has ever roamed the earth! 

We need to take more time to smell the roses, so to speak. Slow down, teach the important life skills that students might only get during the school day, and stop worrying only making them smart, but worry more about making them better people.

This school year is blowing by and I feel like I'm behind on making them better people because we've been so focused on less important things like just getting things done for the sake of doing them. With all the recent fires and displaced people, it's become apparent that less and less students believe in, doing for others. While we have collected a crazy amount of items and worked diligently to help, there is a funny divide that has been created. It's amazing the number of kids that have stepped up to really contribute and give, while others sit back and wait for someone else to give. I feel like it's very telling of their leadership qualities and future leadership potential. It is just one more way for students to grow and become better people-- Funny that some simply choose not to...

Have an impact...

I've been in school almost a week now. This was the first year I really wasn't nervous. I still can't figure out why? I feel like this year I should actually be nervous, since I'm teaching 2 new classes, a modification of an old class, have 2 new administrators and a new school secretary. Everything about that sentence gives me a hair raising chill. But I wasn't nervous on Day 1... We're almost to Day 6 and I'm still not, maybe I'm losing it once and for all? 

This week I have spent a lot of time reflecting on Ag teaching, for various reasons. With the lack of nerves, increased preparation time, and a wave of new students I have been thinking a lot why I love being an Ag Teacher. And not just a teacher, but an Ag teacher specifically. I got to thinking about all the ways that an Ag teacher is one of the coolest teachers you could be. I mean being a math or history teacher is neat, but with being an Ag Teacher, it seems like there are so many more opportunities to have an impact on students. 


On the second day of school, I was included on an email about a retired Ag teacher who had passed away. A teacher that was teaching while I was in high school. Actually, the only year I raised a lamb for fair (almost 20 years ago), I purchased it from him. That added to my thinking, how many professions, email when someone has passed away? How many English teachers email other English teachers in another county to let them know? 


Days following Mr. Randrup's passing, my Facebook was filled with shocked, sorrowful and truly upset messages by community members, colleagues, and past students. While I never had him as a teacher, I watched him at fairs and FFA events and the ever lovely MCJLAC meetings. I could empathize with every message written. It made me think how much of an impact he had on these people's lives. 


It's always nice as a student to feel like you have a personal connection with a teacher. And while there's always an exception, I'm just not sure General Ed teachers have that kind of connection on such a consistent basis. There's always a group of students that teachers are drawn to each year, the ones who spill their guts about anything and everything (even when asked not to). But I feel like as an Ag teacher, that's all my kids??  Even my non typical Ag kids will show up at break just chat. Kids always wanna tell a story or chat about their favorite this or that. 


For Mr. Randrup, the past student Facebook messages and emails from teachers in the surrounding counties offering help, make me realize being an Ag Teacher could be the greatest profession on earth! 


Okay, maybe not the greatest on earth but pretty darn close. 
This is always how I'll remember one of my favorite Ag Teachers... Serious look, Willits hat, flannel shirt, ready to work...

Back to school!

Since I haven't written a blog since June, I figured I needed to give an update about the summer. 

The month of July and beginning of August was consumed by fairs. I never wrote a blog, not because the long days at the fair weren't short of inspiring, but mostly because  cell phone batteries can't keep up with the awesomeness. I literally was at a fair each week for the past 4 weeks. It began with State Fair, rolled into Sonoma County then Ukiah Fair last week. Each is so different, with their own positives and their own set of drama. It's amazing to me that each year, no matter the preparation, there is always something that doesn't go quite right. 

From the time I was little, Ukiah Fair was my fair. It was my vacation, my summer, my reunion, my ideal. I thought when I went to college, came back and worked it and even moved on to bigger and better fairs, I would find the perfect fair somewhere else. Truth is.... It's not possible. Ukiah Fair is still my favorite, the people are still wholesome, the kids are still respectful, and the majority still have realistic goals and expectations. To some, I'm sure it's a po-dunk fair, but this was my 20th year attending as either an exhibitor or leader and I know it has grown, changed in so many positive ways. 

As an Ag teacher, sometimes summers are nonexistent. But thankfully, I get to enjoy a working summer at places like Ukiah Fair. The people are what make it amazing, from the junior livestock auction committee, to the leaders and advisors, to the kids, and dare I even say the parents... I swear, most of them are pretty great. 

Since we head back to school next week, I decided a short vaykay was necessary. Another little trip to the Happiest Place on Earth is calling my name. I rarely give myself credit for things, but after this summer, I'm going and not feeling bad at all! Lol 

Why do I love fairs???

Kids helping kids... 

Kids finding success...

Kids teaching little kids... 

Kids learning new tricks... 

Kids having fun doing what they love... 

I'd like to thank the academy...

Well, while trying to beat the 108* heat and avoid things I should be doing like planning for next year's classes, I figured I'd write about something amazing.

During the CATA (California Ag Teacher's Assoc.) conference I attended last week, my friends and I attended the awards banquet dinner. This year's theme was Masquerade which I thought was pretty fun. The banquet is always a highlight of the conference, as during the evening, the CATA gives awards to teachers and programs throughout the state.

Much to my surprise, I was awarded with the Outstanding Single Person Department award. While I am not a huge fan of recognition or compliments, I am extremely proud of this honor. I know I have worked hard the past two years to completely turn around the agriculture department and FFA chapter at my school.

One of the things I am most proud of, is who got to present me with the award. It was perfect timing as the presenter changes each year. To me, having Mr. Albiani present my award, make me laugh during the picture and tell me congratulations, was the biggest honor of all...

Almost 5 years ago, I had completely lost hope of getting a job in the agriculture teaching profession. I was not the #1 pick coming out of the credential program, I had applied to 25+ jobs with very few interviews and while most of my credential cronies were beginning the school year, I was going to move back to Ukiah to find a regular job.

In September, I applied for a long-term substitute job at Elk Grove High School. I actually got an interview, and ended up getting the job. Mr. Albiani, Ms. Mangan (Schager), and the principal either were completely crazy that day or believed in me more than I believed in myself.

Mr. Mooney has referred to that year, as Disneyland for me. While I'm sure he means something else, I like to think of that year as Disneyland too! Mostly, because it is one of my favorite places. I learned more in that year than I had hoped for and am eternally grateful for Mr. Albiani and the EG crew for taking a chance on me and not getting too upset for when I screwed things up.

Receiving the Outstanding Single Person Department award was an honor. But to me, Mr. Albiani handing me that plaque was the best part. It was as if he was telling me "You did good". The whole EG crew has kept me since my long-term sub gig... As evidence by going to dinner with them every night while at conference.

Being a single person department is hard. No doubt about it. But finding people who continue to mentor, chat and give advice when needed is the reason I have made it as a single person department. So the award wasn't just for me... It was for every person (Ag teacher) who has ever helped me. While there are too many to name, I want to say THANK YOU to every person who ever helped me in some way, shape or form.

Since the banquet, teachers and friends have continued to ask, "how does it feel?" The truth is... It feels the same. I don't work harder than others, in a single person department, I just filled out the application and was picked. There are so many outstanding Ag programs in the state, some run by the best teachers I have ever met. These teachers are also very humble and would never think what they do, is extraordinary... But they are!!!
Fort Bragg, Anderson Valley, Delano, Sebastopol, etc. Ya'll rock my socks... You are amazing!

For now, my plan is to continue doing the most and best I can for my students. While calling, texting, emailing, and talking to the best in the business to get help (or to collaborate with-- educationise speak) when needed. 

All the department award recipients 

The Sonoma Section in the banquet photo booth... 

Looking Toward Retirement

Over the past few weeks I have been incredibly busy and have worked most days since school ended in the beginning of June. 

Luckily, this week I am in San Luis Obispo for the State CATA Conference. This is one of my favorite weeks of the summer each year. I look forward to seeing all the people that feed my soul... other Ag teachers. This year I have learned so much from other Ag teachers, both near and far. It's nice to be able to catch up with those people to remind me how lucky I am to have such a great profession.

As I sit in the Wednesday morning session, where retirees are being recognized (some roasted, lol) I can't help but think about retiring. Not because I'm even close to retirement (only 30 years from now or so), but because it gives me hope and inspires me to do more. 

Being an Ag teacher is about many things but after talking with my former Master Teacher this morning, I could chalk up being an Ag teacher to "mental toughness". It is mentally and physically (hello lack of sleep) demanding to be an Ag teacher. Not necessarily more demanding than other jobs but just more tricky. It's a frickin 3 ring circus most days! Listening to the achievements of retirees who have been in "the business" more than 30 years is intense. 

How can we possibly do amazing things to end up on the stage with accolades like these inspiring people. It goes back to mental toughness. Ag teachers ride the good and bad waves of curriculum,  funding, state staff, colleagues, awards, students, and of course parents. Being able to ride those waves, continue in the profession and be fortunate enough to sit on the stage with other retiring teachers would be an honor.

I know many people don't value this session of the conference because it's long but I always attend this one. This session inspires me to do more, coach more, teach better, meet more people, and just be better. Mental toughness gets me through the tough times to be able to enjoy the good times. Enjoying the good times are the way, Ag teachers survive some days. Having people to catch up with at the conference revives mental toughness. 

I think listening to the achievements should inspire all Ag teachers to do better and more. 

"Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak."

The last few weeks of good times:

Officer Retreat with Sonoma & Elsie Allen

Giants Game!

Regional Officer Retreat (blog post coming about this trip soon)

Trip to Monterey to visit the bestie!

CATA 5k with these girls! Go Dogs!

Never did I ever...

While the 90 days of May are in full swing I have been extremely busy. For once in my life it has not been all school/teaching related. 

I did a few things in the last two weeks that I never thought I would or could do. Each taught me something about myself and the type of person that I want to be along with the type of teacher I want to be. 

First, I ran a half marathon! Now for those of you that know me well, you know I typically don't run unless something is chasing me or there are cupcakes at the finish line. I ran my first 10K last fall in Disneyland.  For whatever reason this completely perked my interest in running. For the last eight months or so, I've diligently planned to run two days sometimes three days a week. And running a half marathon is something I never thought I would do, but completing it give me a sense of pride, accomplishment, purpose, and confidence. All things that I have once or twice in my life forgotten that I had. It was liberating and sooooo FUN! I'm not sure that I have the same motivation when running places other than Disneyland, but I plan to keep trying and improving... 

Ran it with the #soulsister Jill! 

The other thing that I completed was my masters degree with Chico State. This to me has been one of the most difficult but rewarding experiences of my life. It was everything great and awful all at once. I have been working on classes for my Masters for the past two years and finished my thesis this semester. I dubbed Sundays for homework or assignments during the time I took classes. Everyone now keeps asking when I plan to get my administrative credential... The answer is never! I just don't see that in my future or ever being part of my passion... And I'm big on that! If it's not making me feel successful or like I'm making a difference or helping someone to find their passion, I'm out! 

My friend Natalie was my saving grace during the whole program. Mollie, our professor, was my thesis cheerleader!

While it was difficult, I'm glad I did it. It doesn't make me feel smarter or anything crazy like that but it has allowed me to be part of another university, meet and work with some great professors, and collaborate with friends (mostly FaceTime to get through homework). The whole process taught me a lot about myself, how I prioritize time, how I work with others, how I handle stress, how I want to be a better teacher. 

Throughout the last two weeks of craziness, I have had project visits, meetings, parent and student emails, phone calls and texts. That's because this upcoming week is FAIR! 

It's always a crazy time but with all the calls, visits, videos, emails and texts, I am just reminded how great my students are. I have been gone from school a decent amount lately and they have completely stepped up and taken responsibility for themselves and their projects. They have asked questions, worked together, called professionals, communicated and worked diligently to dial in their animals to the best spot they can. Regardless of how much or little individual students need me, they all know the expectations I  have. They are all successfully rising to the challenge, which doesn't happen in every chapter/program. It's a simple question from me about their pig's weight that begins a conversation including feed amounts, weights, videos along with questions about changes they can and will make. Even when some people (parents) try to ruin the progress through hindering their child's growth, and responsibility, I am reminded that those students need the expectations the most, but they are also the ones that rise to the occasion without question. Kids love the competition of fair and livestock, as do I. But at the same time, I try to remind the kids, the big picture isn't about what award or ribbon you won, but maybe the late night barn duty with one of your friends or the silly jokes in the barns. It's about working together, being a team player, and having a great experience. Trophies and ribbons are just a perk. 

Stay tuned for a fair post!