Why I Teach Ag: Jennifer Barton
Wednesday, June 1, 2022 | Author: Texas FFA News
What ag education classes do you teach?
I teach Floral Design, Advanced Animal Science and Plant Science and Vet Med Application.
Why do you teach ag?
There are so many reasons, but the students bring me back each year. Not only do I get to impact their lives, but they impact mine. I love the calls and texts from graduated students updating me on their successes and how they become active members of society.
What is your favorite classroom memory as a teacher?
Not sure I can pick just one memory, but I love to see students' faces when they have finally completed their first floral arrangement, and they are excited to take it home to show it off to their family and friends.
What is your favorite FFA memory?
Well, if you haven't heard, I have become the crazy rabbit ag teacher of the Texas Panhandle. This is all due to one student begging to show a livestock project but didn't have the budget for a large animal. We took a trip up the road to find her first show rabbit. Needless to say, not only did she get to experience taking care of a livestock project, but that one rabbit turned into 30+ rabbits in the next couple of weeks, and now Canyon FFA has over 100+ rabbit projects each year. It's not about making students fit your mold but molding the FFA to fit every student.
Why do you believe that ag education is so important?
Ag education took me from being the quiet girl in the back of the classroom to the crazy ag teacher that wears countless hats. FFA and Ag Education has evolved into a program and curriculum that can mold to fit every student who walks through your door. It builds confidence, hard work, responsibility, and many other soft skills that other programs miss out on.
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