In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms we talk about all things middle school ag. Emma and Sammy are joined by middle school ag teacher, Madelyn Green. Emma and Madelyn share their best tips and tricks for teaching middle school agriculture and navigating a middle school FFA. Tune in to hear some great insight on keeping middle schoolers engaged, our favorite ways to introduce agriculture and what FFA activities have been successful in middle school FFA. Whether you teach full or part time middle school or are just looking for a way to reach those younger students, check this episode out!

More Questions? Email hubere@portage.k12.wi.us or mgreen@spartan.org

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, your hosts Emma and Sammy take on a collection of “What I Wish I Knew Sooner” topics from their own experiences in ag ed. From keeping students engaged in required classes and developing meaningful SAE experiences to planning effective FFA meetings and making the most of State FFA Convention, they share practical tips, lessons learned, and advice they wish someone had given them earlier in their careers. Whether you're a new teacher or a veteran looking for fresh ideas, this episode is packed with relatable insights you can put to use right away or save for next school year. Enjoy your summer!

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

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with ag teacher, Gwen Boettcher and iCEV representative, Leigh Robertson to explore the Wisconsin Technical Incentive Grants and the opportunities they provide for ag ed programs. We discuss what the grants are, why they matter, and how they can help teachers expand access to industry recognized certifications and technical skill development for students. Whether you're new to the grant process or looking for tips to better utilize these grant opportunities, this episode offers practical guidance and helpful insights to help you make the most of this valuable funding opportunity.

Helpful Links:

Department of Workforce Development - CTE Incentive Grants

Information about iCEV and the 13 DWD approved certifications

Educators can sign up to take any of the iCEV hosted certifications at no cost!

More Questions? Email gboettcher@deforestschools.org or leigh.robertson@icevonline.com

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Mark Cournoyer to discuss how he teaches tractor and farm safety in his program. From hands-on demonstrations and real-world examples to partnerships with local organizations and industry professionals, Mark shares strategies for making safety lessons meaningful. We also talk about how to encourage students to take farm safety seriously and offer advice for teachers looking to strengthen or expand farm and tractor safety instruction in their own programs.

More Questions? Email mcournoyer@aubschools.com

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!