What's it like being a high school ag teacher in Texas?

I'm interested in teaching agriculture in a high school setting, especially in Texas. What can those who are currently in high school ag teacher jobs in Texas share about their experiences?

As a high school ag teacher in Texas, you'll find lots of rewarding elements, but also some unique challenges. Texas has a robust history with farming and agriculture which is often mirrored by a strong ag program in the schools. It's not just about teaching topics related to plant science and animal husbandry - lessons about leadership, public speaking and preparing for career readiness in ag industries are also important elements of the curriculum.

You'll find that you spend quite a bit of time not only teaching in the classroom, but also advising students in extracurricular organizations like the FFA. This can mean after-school and weekend commitments, and you might end up spending a lot of time on fundraising, field trips, or competition preparation. You could even find yourself showing lambs or guiding your students in a horticultural project. These “outside school hours” engagements are often what makes agricultural education stand out.

In addition to typical teacher duties like lesson planning and grading, ag teachers often spend time managing school resources like greenhouses, land labs, or even small farms. It can be a lot of work, and every day is different, but many ag teachers love the diversity and hands-on nature of the job.

Being an ag teacher anywhere, especially in Texas, can be very demanding because the needs can extend even during vacations - the livestock don't take a break, after all! But many teachers find the job incredibly rewarding, as they get to see their students much more engaged and active compared to some more traditional academic subjects, and they find it gratifying to see their students making real-world connections beyond the confines of a textbook.

One example of a fulfilling outcome is seeing a student who learns the importance of good record-keeping in ag classes then thrive in a business setting or seeing a student who gets hooked on hydroponics start their own business.

Ultimately, if you really love agriculture and nurturing young minds, teaching ag in Texas can be one of the most rewarding professions out there. Remember: you're not just teaching agriculture; you're shaping the future ag leaders of tomorrow.