Kilgard completes agricultural education training

Marcia Kilgard, an agriculture teacher at Iowa Valley High School, was recently certified through the Curriculum for Agriculture Science Education AFNR program.

Kilgard’s training, held at the Iowa FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny from June 10-18 by Iowa State University, was made possible through the Iowa Department of Education’s Credentials to Careers grant.

This grant initiative selected 37 high schools across Iowa in which to offer students the chance to earn industry-recognized credentials, providing a substantial advantage in today’s competitive job market.

The Iowa Valley Community School District was awarded $60,000 to be used by the Career Technical Education programs in agriculture, industrial technology and business education.

Kilgard’s training in the CASE curriculum equips her with advanced instructional strategies to guide students toward industry-recognized credentials in agriculture.

The CASE AFNR curriculum integrates science, mathematics and literacy into agricultural studies to ensure students develop practical skills essential for thriving in the industry.

Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources introduces students to various career pathways within agriculture while fostering critical skills for employment.

This fall, Iowa Valley Community School District will introduce AFNR industry-recognized credentials into its agriculture program. By earning these credentials in high school, students gain a significant advantage when entering the workforce.