We are back with Glenda Crook & Cheryl Zimmerman of Wisconsin FFA to share important FFA updates for advisors and members. They cover upcoming conference information, contest and award updates, some common FFA questions they are getting, and key deadlines to keep on your radar. This episode is a helpful resource for staying informed and prepared as you plan for the busy FFA season ahead. We will be doing FFA updates quarterly on the podcast.

2025-2026 Wisconsin Association of FFA Calendar

More Questions? Email czimmerman@wisconsinffa.org or gcrook@wisconsinffa.org

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with a National FFA Proficiency Award winner, Ava Medo from Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School and her advisor, Matt Christian to explore the journey behind earning national recognition in her Goat Production Proficiency. Ava shares insights into her project and growth, while Matt discusses strategies for supporting and guiding a high-level proficiency experience.

More Questions? Email mchristian@wittbirn.k12.wi.us

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we interview National FFA Proficiency Award winner, Hannah Oleson from Adams-Friendship High School and her advisor, Becky Grabarski. They share the story behind Hannah's beef project, the work and growth that led her to the national level, and the advisor’s role in supporting a high-quality proficiency experience. This episode offers insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways for members and advisors striving for excellence in their own programs.

More Questions? Email grabarski_b@afasd.net

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, Emma and Sammy take some time to answer questions from preservice teachers about FFA and agricultural education. From advice for getting started to insights on managing an ag program and supporting FFA members, we share our experiences and perspectives to help future ag teachers feel more prepared and confident as they enter the profession.

More Questions? Email sjurczykowski@wdpsd.com or hubere@portage.k12.wi.us

Your question might be featured in our next “Ask an Ag Teacher” episode!

This week on Cultivating Classrooms, we’re celebrating a team that made it all the way to the national stage. We interviewed the Chippewa Falls FFA Horse Evaluation CDE team that earned 2nd place at National FFA Convention, along with their advisor, Caitlin Foster, to hear about their journey through regionals, state, and nationals. From unique and intense practice opportunities to contest-day nerves, they share how they prepared, worked as a team, and represented their program at the highest level.

More Questions? Email fosterca@chipfalls.org

On this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with retired ag teachers Sandy Dykes and Dan Ziegler to talk honestly about the dos and don’ts of retirement. From lessons learned to things they wish they’d done sooner, this conversation is full of practical advice, reflection, and wisdom for educators at any stage of their career.

More Questions? Email sandra.dykes222@gmail.com or danziegler61@gmail.com

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Glenda Crook & Cheryl Zimmerman of Wisconsin FFA to share important FFA updates for advisors and members. They cover upcoming conference information, contest and award updates, some common FFA questions they are getting, and key deadlines to keep on your radar. This episode is a helpful resource for staying informed and prepared as you plan for the busy FFA season ahead.

2025-2026 Wisconsin Association of FFA Calendar

More Questions? Email czimmerman@wisconsinffa.org or gcrook@wisconsinffa.org

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, Emma and I talk through some familiar, free resources that many ag teachers already know and use from time to time. We share our personal favorites, how we use them in our classrooms and FFA programs, and ideas for getting even more value out of these go to tools. If you’re looking for practical ways to make the most of resources you already have, this episode is full of helpful insights.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Facebook - Wisconsin Ag Ed Discussion

• WAAE Google Drive Folder - Request to be a “Viewer”

• One Less Thing

• WI Ag in the Classroom

• National FFA Teacher Resources

• Wisconsin Team Ag Ed Directory

More Questions? Email sjurczykowski@wdpsd.com or hubere@portage.k12.wi.us