Starting an Agricultural Education Program and FFA Chapter

Before you can start an FFA Chapter at your high school you must first have a state approved Agriculture Education Program.

Agricultural Education Program Development Timeline

Agriculture and the food, fiber and natural resource system is America’s most creative, productive and basic industry.  Much of this country’s success in agriculture can be attributed to a sound program of education.  To advance a dynamic and efficient agriculture, food and natural resource system and to assure the continued well-being of our society, first-rate education must continue to be a high priority.  Agricultural Education is a cooperative effort among educational institutions, government agencies and food, fiber and natural resource-related businesses to ensure a strong and vibrant agriculture, food, fiber and natural resource system for Colorado.

The steps listed below are a guide to the successful implementation of an Agricultural Education Program that will prepare students for successful careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture!

Step #1 – Form Advisory Committee

• Determine pathways and program model. See Pathways for Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources.
• Assess resources and recommend needs.  See standards and quality indicators.
• Serve as resource for administration.

Step # 2 – Secure Support of Local Administration

• Determine Colorado Vocational Act (State) Reimbursement and  Federal (Perkins) Reimbursement Potential
• Define Value to School and Community

Step # 3 – Course Planning & Scheduling

• Use Career Paths and State Standards to determine Course Titles. See the CTE Standards Course Builder.
• Create Course Descriptions.  See Agricultural Education Courses Pathways and example Career Pathway Program Map.
• Plan for Student Awareness
• Use the CTE Main Website, www.coloradostateplan.com, a valuable Colorado CTE resource

Step # 4 – Advertise for and Hire Instructor

• Contact Michael Womochil to post on National FFA/AGED Website and email within Colorado. Email michael.womochil@cccs.edu.

Step # 5 – Secure Program Approval

• Contact Michael Womochil to assist with the online program approval process. Email michael.womochil@cccs.edu.