Owl Pellets: Tips For Ag Teachers

Guest: Brandie Disberger from Kansas State University Main Points: Fresh teachers can fear what they do not know. It’s ok to ask questions!A formal mentor can go a long way. Find someone that will constructively reflect with you. One mentor does not fit all. Build yourself a network of people you can go to for different things.

Guests: Jay Solomonson from Illinois State University The presence of a support system is one of the biggest factors that keep teachers in the classroom. This can be support from administration, family, or both. Teachers need recognition too. Everyone wants their hard to work to be acknowledged in some way. Teachers want to make an impact on students. The more they are prepared and knowledgeable in their subject, the more their students learn.

Guests: Erik Johnson, Alicia Lund, Brooke Theil from North Dakota State University Always be prepared when requesting funds to purchase equipment. Have resources ready to validate your program’s needs. Keep a running list of needs. An administrator may find money that needs to be spent at any time. Teachers need to play the long game. Plan on acquiring equipment over time

Guests: Kasee Smith from University of Idaho, Raegan Ramage from Louisiana State University, Aaron McKim from Michigan State University, Tyson Sorensen from Utah State University We have seen an increase in efficiency. A lot can be accomplished through virtual meetings. Everyone’s teaching experience was different during the peak of COVID. Do not be afraid to continue or discontinue certain practices. Students are now much more grateful for opportunities, like going to contests, since they went without for a year.

Guests: Kasee Smith from University of Idaho, Raegan Ramage from Louisiana State University, Aaron McKim from Michigan State University, Tyson Sorensen from Utah State University More experienced teachers have a newfound proficiency in modern technology as a result of the pandemic. COVID took away a lot of key aspects of teaching that contribute to job satisfaction. Teachers are more likely to reach out to others for resources following the isolation of the pandemic.

How often to teachers move schools? The answer may surprise you! Join special guests Becky Haddad and Brett Milliken from Oregon State University for another interesting discussion with the Owl Pettets crew.