DIY in the Public Eye!

Hello again! We are here for an update about student teaching, and the DIY project that I have just completed. For the AEE 495 class this semester I was assigned to work with my cooperating teacher, Mrs Bier, to develop a new assignment that will contribute to my growth and development as a teacher candidate. 

For my assignment, I chose to work with Shippensburg's FFA officers to prepare for their annual School Board Meeting Presentation. I have been teaching the Ag Leadership class since January 23, a class that gives the FFA officers a look into real world applications of leadership both in and out of the ag industry. 

In Ag Leadership, with the help of the officers and Mrs. Bier, I was able to help the students develop their script for what they would say on February 27th at the Regular Shippensburg Area School Board Meeting. We spent time working on the script on February 24th, after the President, Maddie, completed a list of what she thought should be included in the presentation. Then, on February 27th, during our class time we practiced the speech to be sure it would fit the "short and concise" request of the board, as well as getting the points across that the officers were hoping for. 

The officers, as well as a first year member, did an excellent job of summarizing what the FFA has been up to, and their recent major accomplishments. The Board meeting was a very big deal to Shippensburg seeing as this is how they ended up with their second Agricultural Educator position last year. At their last presentation, the board asked what they could do for the FFA. Mrs. Bier's response was a second teacher! 

This year's presentation to the board included an introduction and conclusion by Maddie, a thank you for Miss Boltz by Madelyn, a discussion of new courses being offered next year by Izzy, a summary of the middle school club by Alonna, an overview of future events by Kelsey, a review of National Convention by Jenna, an outline of Midwinter FFA Convention by Mitchel, a recap of Keystone Degrees and FFA Jackets by Ryleigh, and finally a run-down of National FFA Week by Bri and Krista. 

It was a joy to see the support of parents, the community, and the school board themselves. Mr. August, Shippensburg's new Superintendent, congratulated the team on their successful National FFA Week, along with the others that they discussed. 

I am so impressed with the students' hard work, and I cannot wait to have students of my own presenting their successes to a school board! This project helped to emphasis the need for a supportive admin team, as well as selecting officers that are up for some challenges. I really enjoyed helping with this presentation and working more with the officer team. 

Here's To Part of the Whole Tree, 

Ms. Holtry