Earlier this year, three teachers: Shelly Kubicek, Craig Flaming, and Kris Spath participated in the NAEA FIELD Experience, sponsored by the Nebraska FFA Foundation. Kubicek, Flaming, and Spath traveled out to various parts of Nebraska to shadow fellow educators at different schools. By observing their peers, they were able to gain new perspectives and bring back fresh ideas to their own classrooms. Their reflections highlight the impact of professional development through observation and collaboration with other teachers, showcasing how opportunities in agriculture are all around us!

Shelly Kubicek observed Jenny Kocian at East Butler. It was great for Kubicek to see the relationship that she built with her students, which was very evident in their interactions in the classroom, and in the greenhouse. Observing Kocian livestock management class, which focused on wholesale and retail meat cuts, Kubicek found similarities to her own teaching style and now has fresh ideas for her Intro to Ag class this coming year. The afternoon was equally engaging as Kubicek helped the nursery and Landscape Class mulch the grounds for an upcoming graduation ceremony.  Kubicek’s conversation with the Skills USA and shop teacher provided valuable insights into ag construction and using laser engravers, helping to ease her concerns about starting a new program at her school. This experience reminded her of the importance of pacing herself and not trying to do everything in her first year.

Craig Flaming observed Ashton Bohling from Johnson-Brock County. With 15 years of teaching under his belt, Flaming found many similarities between Johnson-Brock and his own. This opportunity allowed him to gain a fresh perspective on the daily challenges and successes faced by educators, highlighting that many struggles are universal, yet approached differently in each classroom. What Flaming enjoyed most about this experience was bouncing ideas off of Bohling. He saw firsthand the benefits of a two-teacher program, emphasizing how collaboration between teachers enhances student engagement and accountability.

Kristine Spath observed Emilia Brozek and Colin Kubik at Norris High School. Since it was the last day of class for the seniors, there was a mix of activities. Kubik's classes were dedicated to planting a test plot on the 130 acres across from the school, an experience Spath found fascinating. She engaged with students about their selection of seeds, fertilizers, and crop protection products. Witnessing the precision technology in action while riding in the tractor provided by AKRS Equipment was a highlight of hers. This new tractor was all controlled on a screen, which was a technological advancement that Spath hadn’t seen in years. Spending time with Brozek’s classes, which were similar to those Spath teaches at Waverly, allowed her to gather new ideas and activities to incorporate into her own Floral Design and Intro to Ag classes. Also, their discussions extended beyond the classroom, covering FFA officer teams, retreats, CDE and LDE preparations, and summer activities. Spath found herself inspired by the well-organized and impactful strategies Brozek and Kubik have been using throughout the year. This visit left Spath eager to implement new ideas and continue her desire to explore different agricultural programs, recognizing the value these experiences bring to her professional growth and her students’ educational experiences.

The NAEA Field Experience showcases the importance of collaboration between Ag Teachers across the state of Nebraska to better impact the next generation of agriculture leaders. By stepping into other teachers' classrooms and sharing their experiences, Kubicek, Flaming, and Spath have brought back fresh perspectives and innovative curriculums to use for their future of teaching. Their reflections show the true impact that these opportunities have on educators, enhancing their students' experience.