Agriculture Science Teacher

TITLE:
 Agriculture Teacher / FFA Advisor

REPORTS TO:
 Building Principal

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Saydel High School is seeking a dynamic and student-centered Agriculture Teacher to lead our agriculture education program and serve as the FFA Advisor. This position is supported by a stipend and includes 12 additional summer contract days to support FFA chapter development, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) supervision, and student participation in summer events such as county and state fairs, leadership conferences, and program planning.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:

• Teach knowledge and skills in agriculture education courses approved by the Board of Education.
• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned to Iowa Core standards and Career & Technical Education (CTE) guidance.
• Integrate hands-on, real-world learning experiences in areas such as animal science, plant science, ag business, food science, natural resources, and ag mechanics.
• Organize class time effectively for instruction, hands-on learning, and clean-up within allotted periods.
• Select and maintain instructional materials, shop tools, equipment, and inventory; make purchases as required within budget.
• Instruct students in the safe use and care of tools, machinery, and lab facilities.
• Evaluate student performance, prepare progress reports, and provide ongoing feedback to students and families.
• Provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of individual learners and small groups.
• Encourage students to explore agriculture-related careers and leadership opportunities through the FFA program.
• Serve as the FFA Chapter Advisor, coordinating leadership development events (CDEs), conventions, banquets, fundraising, and community engagement activities.
• Supervise student Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects and maintain accurate records.
• Utilize the 12 extended contract days to conduct summer SAE visits, attend fairs and events, prepare for the upcoming year, and provide ongoing FFA support.
• Maintain an organized, safe, and respectful classroom and shop environment.
• Communicate regularly with parents, counselors, and colleagues about student progress and program initiatives.
• Participate in school and district-level curriculum development and professional learning.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, share facilities and materials responsibly, and contribute to the positive culture of Saydel High School.
• Maintain professional competence through district-provided and self-selected professional development.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the principal.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture Education or related field.
• Valid Iowa teaching license with appropriate endorsement(s) for Agriculture Education.
• Valid mandatory reporter certification.
• Bloodborne pathogens and Right to Know training certificates (or willingness to obtain).
• Successful completion of a background check.

ADDITIONAL POSITION DETAILS:

• This position includes a stipend for FFA Advisor responsibilities.
• Twelve (12) additional contract days are provided during the summer to support extended responsibilities, including FFA events and State Fair supervision/support.