Job Description: Secondary Agriculture Teacher

Location: West Fork School District

Position Type: Full-Time, 240 day contract

Reports To: Building Principal & District Career and Technical Education (CTE) Coordinator

Position Overview

The Agriculture Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources  career cluster. This role goes beyond the traditional classroom, requiring a "three-circle" approach to education: Classroom/Laboratory Instruction, Leadership Development (FFA and Skills USA), and Experiential Learning (SAE).

Key Responsibilities

1. Classroom & Laboratory Instruction

• Develop and implement lesson plans aligned with the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) and Division of Career and Technical Education (DCTE) standards.
• Provide hands-on instruction in various pathways, which may include:

• Animal Systems (Livestock, Equine, Vet Science)
• Plant Systems (Horticulture, Greenhouse Management)
• Agricultural Mechanics (Welding, Small Engines, Structural Systems)
• Agribusiness and Natural Resources

• Maintain a safe and organized laboratory environment (shop, greenhouse, or school farm), ensuring all equipment is in proper working order.

2. FFA and Skills USA Chapter Leadership

• Serve as the primary advisor for the local FFA and Skills USA Chapter.
• Coach and prepare students for Career Development Events (CDEs) and Leadership Development Events (LDEs) at the district, state, and national levels.
• Oversee chapter fundraising, budget management, and community service projects.
• Accompany students to state conventions, leadership camps, and livestock shows (often requiring travel and weekend work).

3. Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE)

• Assist students in developing and maintaining SAE projects, which bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
• Conduct on-site visits to monitor student progress.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Licensure: Must hold (or be eligible for) an Arkansas Educator License with a secondary Agriculture endorsement (Standard 7-12).
• Certifications: Valid driver’s license; CDL license; specific industry certifications (e.g., AWS Welding, Private Applicator) are a plus.
• Technical Knowledge: Proficiency in modern agricultural technology and equipment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfort working in varied environments, including high-heat greenhouses, noisy shops, and outdoor settings.
• Stamina for long days during fair seasons or competition cycles.

Arkansas-Specific Expectations

• ACTE Participation: Engagement with the Arkansas Association of Career and Technical Education.
• Program Advisory Committee: Establish and maintain an advisory committee of local industry leaders to ensure curriculum relevance.

Reporting: Timely submission of Perkins funding reports and CTE student enrollment data.