I always enjoy being in the presence of mastery agriculture
educators. Not only does it give me an opportunity to be reminded of the power
of an expansive professional network, but it reminds me of the reasons why I
chose this profession.
I have a strong appreciation for both the National Associations of Agriculture Educators and the Pennsylvania Association of Agriculture Educators. Each organization has a great willingness to accept the pre-service teachers of the profession. Each time I have been given the opportunity to participate in a PAAE or NAAE event, I have grown to appreciate the network of teachers, mentors and friends that I have been able to establish there.
Therefore, I had no hesitation in joining Mr. Campbell and Mrs. Rippole Thursday (4/5) at the Western Region PAAE meeting. I was able to enjoy a meal around the table of fellow teachers and discuss upcoming professional events. Here were a few highlights from the evening:
I have a strong appreciation for both the National Associations of Agriculture Educators and the Pennsylvania Association of Agriculture Educators. Each organization has a great willingness to accept the pre-service teachers of the profession. Each time I have been given the opportunity to participate in a PAAE or NAAE event, I have grown to appreciate the network of teachers, mentors and friends that I have been able to establish there.
Therefore, I had no hesitation in joining Mr. Campbell and Mrs. Rippole Thursday (4/5) at the Western Region PAAE meeting. I was able to enjoy a meal around the table of fellow teachers and discuss upcoming professional events. Here were a few highlights from the evening:
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| Some light reading on amazing opportunities |
- PAAE – We were fortunate to have the President of PAAE, Neil Fellenbaum, join us and share updates on committee development and growth. Additionally, reminding everyone of upcoming dates and deadlines to participate in PAAE functions.
- PA FFA – After Mr. Brammer began the program for the State Officer Candidacy School (S.O.C.S.) participants, he joined us to share an update on changes to applications and competitions for FFA.
- Center for Professional & Personnel Development – Following PAAE and PA FFA updates, the Center for Professional & Personnel Development shared about the many opportunities of professional development workshops and conferences that they are hosting for pre-service teacher, new & beginning teachers, and experienced teachers.
- Western Region Updates – Mr. Campbell shared upcoming area LDE and CDE dates, as well as deadlines for Regional contest.
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| Enjoying an Ag 'family' dinner |
It was amazing to hear and learn about the abundant opportunities to grow professionally as an educator, and provide similar opportunities to students through FFA. Overall, there is an immense value in paying dues and being
an active participant in professional organizations. In an unique industry like
agriculture, it is important to actively seek out these organizations to ensure
that we are the most relevant educators possible.
As I shared in my Week 13 blog, Thursday was an exhausting
day. However, I could not imagine a better way to end the day than at the
Western Region PAAE meeting.
Halee, glad to see you getting to experience what it is like to belong to a professional association for ag teachers. Membership in PAAE and NAAE will be a valuable resource for you throughout your career.
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