by Alysha Kientopf, Ag Teacher & FFA Advisor
The school year is off to a dynamic and productive start in the Agriculture Education Department, with students fully immersed in a variety of practical, skill-building activities across all of our ag courses. The energy and commitment from our students have been outstanding, and it's clear that this year will bring many exciting achievements for both the classroom and our FFA chapter.
In Wildlife and Fisheries, our focus has been on understanding the principles of wildlife management and conservation. Students are learning how to balance the needs of wildlife populations with environmental conservation efforts. These lessons are designed to equip students with the knowledge and tools to protect and manage natural resources sustainably. We've discussed key conservation strategies and how human interaction with the environment plays a role in preserving our wildlife habitats.
In Agricultural Mechanics, students have been getting hands-on experience with basic electrical wiring, an essential skill in agricultural technology and beyond. Our electricity unit has provided students with the opportunity to explore how electrical systems function, learning about circuit design, safety protocols, and the application of wiring in real-world agricultural settings. This practical knowledge is foundational for future projects in agricultural mechanics and engineering.
Ag Leadership and Communications has been focusing on the critical themes of leadership, ethics, and communication. Through discussions, projects, and presentations, students are developing essential leadership qualities that will serve them well in both their personal and professional lives. We are working on strategies for ethical decision-making and honing communication skills, empowering students to become not only effective leaders within our chapter but also influential voices in the larger community.
In Food Science, students have been introduced to the fundamental concepts of food science, including the history of food production, processing, storage, and safety. We are currently focusing on the scientific method and its application in food-related experiments and innovations. This foundation will help students explore the broader food industry, preparing them for deeper studies in food technology, nutrition, and agriculture.
The Introduction to Agriculture class has been delving into the world of soybeans, exploring the entire journey from seed to field to table. We are discussing the significance of soybeans in modern agriculture and their widespread use in various food products. Students are gaining a comprehensive understanding of how soybeans contribute to both the local and global agricultural economy, as well as the process of cultivating and marketing them.
On the FFA side, our chapter is already actively participating in a range of activities. We kicked off the year with Land and Homestead Judging competitions, where students demonstrated their knowledge of soil health, land use, and rural property management. These competitions help our members build critical thinking skills and apply their classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios.
I am incredibly proud of the dedication and hard work that our students are displaying, both in the classroom and through FFA. Their commitment to learning, leadership, and service sets a strong tone for what promises to be a fantastic year. The Agriculture Education Department and FFA Chapter have a full year ahead, packed with opportunities for growth, discovery, and achievement.
Thanks to the following sponsors who made our Harvest 2024 special issue possible:
