They’re the ones that make the corduroy cool — they bleed blue and gold. Most of them were members themselves, inspired by the impact that their educators and leaders had on them. All of them share a passion for youth and teaching them to live by the four values members work on through fun and engaging programs — ag teachers.
But, did you know that those FFA advisors also live and teach by a creed? Here’s what the Ag Teacher’s Creed says.
I am an agricultural educator by choice and not by chance.
Teaching agriculture requires more than just chance happening — it requires careful planning and dedication to seeing their own educational trajectory through.
Ag educators need to have a bachelor’s degree in agriculture science or closely related field of study. Those following a traditional route typically obtain a bachelor’s degree that includes some type of educational prep program. Most states also require that teachers pass a certification exam.
»Related: Differences that make 4-H and FFA stand out — and successful
I believe in American agriculture; I dedicate my life to its development and the advancement of its people.
Agriculture is far more than an elective curriculum, and learning in FFA extends far beyond the classroom. Ag teachers believe in the necessity of agricultural science in educating students in skills that will help prepare them for successful careers, and to make informed choices in the global agriculture, fiber, food, and natural resources system.
»Related: 6 pieces of advice every new FFA advisor should receive
I will strive to set before my students by my deeds and actions the highest standards of citizenship for the community, state, and nation.
It’s a big and heavy list — truly. Even those of us who have never been in the shoes of an advisor will likely find themselves referring to lessons that they learned from your FFA advisors. Ag teachers pass on everything from life hacks to passions, life lessons, and a passion for “living to serve”.
I will endeavor to develop professionally through study, travel and exploration.
Education and personal development never ends for ag advisors. As familiar as the FFA may be to those of us in ag spaces, agricultural fields are forever developing and changing, and so is education. To keep up, ag teachers participate in general and specialized educational personal development, network with other ag teachers, and spend plenty of their personal time engaging in education exploration in order to do better and be better.
I will not knowingly wrong my fellow teachers. I will defend them as far as honesty will permit.
When in comes to agriculture, and to teaching, it’s a small world. Whether it’s teaching agriculture in Alaska or Oklahoma, teaching algebra or family and consumer sciences, educators have to have each other’s backs when ethically possible.
I will work for the advancement of agricultural education and I will defend it in my community, state, and nation.
And, what better way to help advance agriculture education than to be right in the middle of it? But, that’s not always easy in an ever-changing world. Ag teachers often find themselves advocating within their schools, districts, and working to improve the lives and education of their students within their community, at the state and even with national involvement.
I realize that I am a part of the school system. I will work in harmony with school authorities and other teachers of the school.
While some ag advisors are lucky enough to work in supportive communities that value ag education, others may find that it’s an uphill climb. Either way, they’ve taken an oath to work as part of the school system and everyone in it — even when it’s difficult.
My love for youth will spur me on to impart something from my life that will help make for each of my students a full and happy future.
There’s no doubt about it — ag educators are some of the most dedicated individuals out there — because teaching ag is an “all in” type of profession. Their school days often extend well beyond the school day, they work summer contracts, and they’re often under appreciated and overworked. They are known for taking time away from their own families and other interests all to help develop those of their students.
»Related: Cherish all that FFA advisors impart on their members
Heidi Crnkovic, is the Associate Editor for AGDAILY. She is a New Mexico native with deep-seated roots in the Southwest and a passion for all things agriculture.
