Question the Process, Not the Person
By Heather Thomas, CATA President Elect
|
|
Over the course of my 31-year career, I have had 13 principals, nine vice principals, seven superintendents, six assistant state FFA advisors, four regional supervisors, three state advisors, and too many school site faculty changes to count. When a new hire enters the scene, there is always a great deal of chit-chat about the strengths and weaknesses of the candidate. We stalk his or her social media account and call teachers at other schools to learn more about the individual’s background. This meticulous gathering of information is inherent to the role of an agricultural teacher, as we find ourselves frequently interacting with state staff, site administration, ASB directors, and athletic directors—far more frequently than our colleagues across the campus. Our reactions to new hires vary—sometimes we're excited, other times less so.
Rumors about candidates and the hiring process are common whenever there's a new hire, whether at the local or state level. In my experience, the times when we have been most unhappy about a new hire stem not from the individual selected, but rather from flaws in the hiring process itself. When input from stakeholders is disregarded, candidate recommendations are overlooked, and vetting is insufficient, it often leads to an adversarial working environment that does not benefit anyone.
|
|
Things I Wish I Would Have Known Entering This Profession
By Shay Williams-Hopper, San Joaquin Region Supervisor, California Department of Education
|
|
Thank you for joining this crazy, wild, fun profession. It is unlike anything else you will ever do. I remember as a first-year teacher being in awe of the profession and wanting to be recognized as an outstanding contributor to education. That led to a lot of undue pressure, anxiety, and stress on my part. I became a part of a department that consistently earned recognition at both the state and national levels, this led me to believe that if I worked really hard, I could live up to their history and tradition. As time has passed, I have matured in my thinking. I have contemplated what I wish someone would have told me as a new professional in this career, and I am going to share those thoughts with you today.
Number one: You do not have to know and do everything. I know that as a first-year teacher asking for help can sound scary and make you feel inadequate, but it’s the best thing that you can do for your career! It’s going to help you grow and learn work-life balance, while also engaging community members in your program that can then advocate for you. I highly recommend considering the implementation of a volunteer inventory, such as the one provided in this resource: Alumni Volunteer Resource Inventory. By utilizing this tool, you can effectively identify individuals within your community who are enthusiastic about assisting you. This approach enables you to tap into their unique qualities and skills that you might not personally possess, thereby creating valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth. Continue reading this article at calagteachers.org.
|
|
Registration Opens for the 5K for FFA |
|
Time to dust off those running shoes and lace up for the annual 5K for FFA, presented by Molina Healthcare! From October 8-14, chapters and communities will come together to complete 3.1 miles in support of California FFA. These miles can be completed at your own pace, convenience, and chosen location – whether it's within your neighborhood, around the farm, or even on a treadmill. Proceeds from this fundraiser will assist the Foundation in reducing conference fees, enhancing Career Development Events (CDE) and Leadership Development Events (LDE), and providing proficiency awards and scholarships. Don’t wait, register your chapter today!
Ag Teachers: Use code “INVOICE23” during checkout to receive an invoice option.
|
|
2023 CATA Hall of Fame Inductees |
|
These distinguished educators have dedicated substantial portions of their careers to the field, leaving an enduring mark on agricultural education. Their induction into the CATA Hall of Fame serves as a celebration of their significant contributions and dedication.
The following individuals have played a vital role in advancing the field of agricultural education:
The CATA Hall of Fame highlights the transformative potential of agricultural education and the individuals who invest themselves in its growth. Congratulations!
|
|
Target Circle Giving Program Empowers Agricultural Education |
|
Thank you for voting in the Target Circle Giving Program! With your votes, we received $13,888 to support the California FFA and advance agricultural education. Target's generous donation to local nonprofits made this possible. We appreciate everyone who participated and helped spread the word. Check target.com/circle for all the results. Thank you again for your support! |
|
Happening Now: Greenhand Leadership Conference Registration |
|
Freshman FFA members are invited to participate in the 2023 Greenhand Leadership Conferences held across the state from late September through the end of October. Facilitators will help students identify their talents, strengths and interests, as they learn about how FFA can help them make the most of their high school experience. Register today: https://www.calaged.org/greenhand-leadership-conference
|
|
Agricultural Education Master Calendar Now Available! |
|
The 2023-2024 calendar is now available in the AET for downloading. |
|
The Essential Back-to-School Accessory: The FFA Jacket |
|
School is back in session, and it won’t be long until your newest members need their own FFA jacket. The good news? California FFA is giving away jackets to EVERY FFA chapter!
Each year, the California FFA Foundation, in partnership with Blue Diamond Growers and a dedicated network of alumni and supporters, launches a remarkable campaign on Giving Tuesday. The goal? To raise funds that will allow them to provide deserving FFA members with their very own FFA jackets.
|
|
Coming Soon: The 2023 Ag in the Classroom Conference |
|
Be part of the California Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) Conference on September 22-24 in Sacramento. Attendees will learn new and exciting ways to teach K-12 students about where their food and fiber comes from. The conference includes hands-on activities, farm and ranch field trips, farmer and author panels, and opportunities to collaborate with other educators. Enrich your teaching and be part of this educational journey. Click here for more information or to register!
|
|
Featured Resource: Bringing Biotech to Life: An Educational Resource, Grades 7-10 |
|
"Bringing Biotechnology to Life" is a comprehensive resource for science educators and enthusiasts. It covers DNA understanding, selective breeding, and modern agricultural biotechnology, including GMOs. With eight structured lessons, the unit promotes critical thinking and culminates in a research paper and public presentation. Rooted in Project Based Learning, it offers engaging education with real-world impact. Download your FREE copy today: www.agfoundation.org/bringing-biotech-to-life. |
|
Thank You Corporate Members!
The California Ag Teachers Association appreciates the commitment of our corporate members who support agricultural education.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
‌
‌
‌