WSU’s Warner Focuses On The Future of Ag Education

For the Ag industry to remain strong for the foreseeable future, not only does the next generation of farmers and ranchers need to be taught, but so to does the next generation of Ag teachers.  Washington State University recently hired Anna Warner to focus on teaching those who will teach agriculture to those who have yet been born.

Warner grew up in 4-H and FFA and understands the importance of not only Ag teachers, but quality Ag teachers.  She said teaching agriculture is unlike any other subject in the public schools.  It’s not a typical lecture style classroom, and there’s a wide variety of content to cover.

“From Ag shops to Ag marketing and business to some of the more scientific biotechnology skills, and so it’s really important in agriculture education that not only are they getting an understanding of the content but also skills and strategies how to teach that in the classroom.”

Warner added Ag teachers are struggling with similar issues as the general agriculture industry.

“But across the country, we have a shortage of Ag teachers, it’s something that’s been going on for years.”

Warner added Washington’s diverse Ag industry can be a good thing and a bad; allowing for teachers to find a sector that ignites their passion, but overwhelming some teachers.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com