Agricultural Education is built on three key components: classroom instruction, FFA, and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). In addition to classroom learning, students have opportunities to develop real-world skills and leadership through SAE projects and participation in Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs).
These opportunities allow students to apply what they learn, explore career pathways, and build confidence through hands-on experiences and competition
SAE projects provide students with real-world, hands-on learning experiences outside of the classroom. These projects help students develop responsibility, independence, and career skills related to agriculture.
Students are expected to maintain an SAE project as part of their agricultural education experience.
Ownership/Entrepreneurship
Raising livestock, growing crops, or starting an agricultural business
Placement (Work Experience)
Working for an agricultural business or employer
Research/Experimentation
Conducting agricultural investigations or scientific research
School-Based Enterprise
Managing school projects such as greenhouses, gardens, or shop-based work
Service Learning
Participating in community service related to agriculture
Students will:
Develop and maintain an SAE project
Keep accurate records using AET (Agricultural Experience Tracker)
Set goals and track progress
Participate in regular check-ins and evaluations
Present their project progress when required
SAE projects help students build skills that can lead to awards, scholarships, and career opportunities.
CDEs are competitive events that allow students to apply technical agricultural knowledge and skills. These events focus on teamwork, problem-solving, and career preparation.
Students compete at the sectional, regional, and state levels.
Agricultural Mechanics
Livestock Evaluation
Floriculture
Veterinary Science
Agricultural Issues
Nursery/Landscape
Forestry
Develop technical and career skills
Gain hands-on experience
Improve teamwork and communication
Build confidence in competitive environments
Prepare for college and career pathways
LDEs focus on building leadership, communication, and public speaking skills. These events help students develop confidence and professionalism.
Creed Speaking
Prepared Public Speaking
Extemporaneous Speaking
Job Interview
Parliamentary Procedure
Improve public speaking skills
Build leadership and confidence
Develop professional communication
Prepare for interviews and future careers
Gain recognition and awards
Students are encouraged to participate in SAE projects and join CDE and LDE teams based on their interests.
Participation in these activities:
Enhances classroom learning
Builds leadership and career skills
Strengthens college and job applications
Creates opportunities for awards and recognition
No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn and participate.
Participation in SAE and FFA activities, including CDEs and LDEs, is an important part of the Agriculture Education program. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed.
Enroll in an agriculture course
Join FFA and attend meetings
Start an SAE project
Compete in CDE or LDE events
Earn FFA degrees and awards
Build skills for college and careers