11/02/2025
Hey Ag Teacher, thank you.
As comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank you — and salute you. Thank you for dedicating your time, talent, and heart to making this week possible for so many students. You went the extra mile to ensure they experienced an unforgettable National FFA Convention, and your impact doesn’t go unnoticed.
Earlier this week on LinkedIn, NAAE Chief Executive Officer Alissa Smith wrote:
"Indianapolis is full of more than 70,000 students in blue jackets this week for the National FFA Convention & Expo. These students represent bright futures for our communities and our world. As they gather for National FFA Convention, all eyes are on them! We are excited to watch how they will grow, what they will learn, and what they will accomplish while wearing that iconic blue corduroy jacket.
But let's also take a moment to recognize who made the blue jackets possible; the agricultural educator.
They are the ones calming the nerves of students as they step into competition rooms, celebrating with those who reach their goals, and reminding others that there is always next year when things don't go as planned. They are making last minute runs for items students left at home, making sure everyone is at the right place on time (which means at least 15 minutes early), and consuming way too much coffee to keep up with this younger generation. Every day, they are teaching students to be flexible, resilient, to solve problems, and to build relationships that truly matter.
They are the ag teachers; the mentors shaping the next generation of leaders in agriculture."
