In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Erika Schade, the Community and Schools Manager from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, to learn more about the resources and opportunities they offer to ag teachers. We discuss classroom resources, educational programs, industry connections, and ways teachers can bring Wisconsin’s dairy industry into their classrooms. Whether you teach dairy science or simply want to incorporate more dairy related content into your program, this episode highlights the many ways Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin can support ag educators.

More Questions? Email [email protected] or Visit the Dairy Farmers of WI Website here! https://www.wisconsindairy.org/

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we sit down with Gwen Boettcher (DeForest Area High School) and Candice Franks (Delavan-Darien School District) to explore how they teach veterinary science in their programs. They share their favorite hands-on activities, resources and classroom strategies for engaging students while preparing them for careers in animal health. Whether you're building a new vet science course or looking for fresh ideas, this episode is full of practical tips and inspiration for bringing veterinary science to life in the ag classroom.

More Questions? Email Gwen at [email protected] or Candice at [email protected] 

Feel free to check out Gwen and Candice’s materials here! https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17ATQPjxea2I6pj9kjY34wmKKcW-kk1dN?usp=sharing

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we talk with Dr. Becky Haddad, Assistant Professor of Agriculture Education at University of Nebraska-Lincoln about her idea of the “Difficult Less.” We discuss how to say “no” without necessarily losing out on opportunities and how to thoughtfully shift responsibilities to students. We explore practical ways to manage the many demands of teaching and advising while giving students more ownership and leadership opportunities. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on setting boundaries, prioritizing what matters, and finding a healthier balance between work and life.

More Questions? Email Becky at [email protected] or check out her podcast Owl Pellets: Tips for Ag Teachers!

In this episode of Cultivating Classrooms, we are joined by ag teacher Gretchen Rozeboom to talk about using standards based grading in the classroom. Gretchen and one of our hosts, Emma Huber, share how they communicate learning targets, assess student mastery, and navigate the challenges and benefits of moving beyond the traditional points based grading system. If your school has already implemented this grading system or is looking at it as an option, this episode offers practical insight from the perspective of classroom teachers who regularly use standards based grading.

More Questions? Email [email protected] or [email protected] 

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 [email protected] or [email protected]

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 [email protected] or [email protected] 

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 [email protected] or [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected] or [email protected] 

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 [email protected]