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Trent Van Leuven thought he might be an ag economist until a chance encounter with an ag educator and a 700-mile drive changed everything. Starting his career during the recession of 2009, Trent has seen the blessings and challenges of being an ag teacher in Mackay, Idaho, a town with under 1,000 residents. He shares how many students thrive when connected to technical skills early in their lives and how schools can change lives by building programs that fit “hands-on” learners.

Trent was awarded the 2024 Idaho Teacher of the Year and used that opportunity in the state and in the nation to educate leaders about small-town schools.