2026 NAAE Convention: Full Schedule

8:30am CST

Future Agriscience Teacher (FAST) Symposium Session I

Tuesday December 1, 2026 8:30am - 5:30pm CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Tuesday December 1, 2026 8:30am - 5:30pm CST
TBA

Future Agriscience Teacher Symposium

8:30am CST

Teachers Turn the Key Professional Development Sessions I & II

Tuesday December 1, 2026 8:30am - 5:30pm CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Tuesday December 1, 2026 8:30am - 5:30pm CST
TBA

Teachers Turn the Key

9:00am CST

XLR8 – Experienced Teacher Professional Development Sessions I & II

Tuesday December 1, 2026 9:00am - 6:00pm CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Tuesday December 1, 2026 9:00am - 6:00pm CST
TBA

XLR8

9:30am CST

INFLUENCE Professional Development Sessions I & II

Tuesday December 1, 2026 9:30am - 5:00pm CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Tuesday December 1, 2026 9:30am - 5:00pm CST
TBA

INFLUENCE

10:00am CST

NAAE State Leaders Training Program

Tuesday December 1, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Tuesday December 1, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

1:00pm CST

NAAE Convention Registration

Tuesday December 1, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST

TBA

Tuesday December 1, 2026 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
TBA

Convention Registration

1:00pm CST

NAAE Teacher Recruitment & Retention Innovation Forum

Tuesday December 1, 2026 1:00pm - 6:00pm CST

TBA

Tuesday December 1, 2026 1:00pm - 6:00pm CST
TBA

7:00am CST

NAAE Convention Registration

Wednesday December 2, 2026 7:00am - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 7:00am - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Convention Registration

8:00am CST

First Time Attendee Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CST
TBA

9:00am CST

NAAE Opening General Session and ACTE Ag Ed Division Business Session

Wednesday December 2, 2026 9:00am - 10:45am CST

TBA

Featuring Outstanding Postsecondary Agriculture Program Awards, Outstanding Middle/Secondary Ag. Ed. Program, Preservice Recognition, the ACTE Ag Ed Division Business session and NAAE Meet the Candidates - Q & A time with the NAAE President Elect candidates.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 9:00am - 10:45am CST
TBA

NAAE General Sessions

11:00am CST

NAAE Region I Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

11:00am CST

NAAE Region II Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

11:00am CST

NAAE Region III Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

11:00am CST

NAAE Region IV Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

11:00am CST

NAAE Region V Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

11:00am CST

NAAE Region VI Meeting

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

1:30pm CST

Bloom & Build: Creating a Successful Floral Bouquet Bar for Ag Education Programs

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Looking for an engaging, hands-on activity that combines creativity, entrepreneurship, and ag education? This interactive workshop will guide participants through the process of planning and implementing a successful floral bouquet bar experience within an ag education or horticulture program. Participants will learn strategies for flower selection, sourcing materials, organizing a bouquet bar...
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Speakers

Raul Perea

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Jessica Gute

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Sharlae Brown

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Built to Belong: Recruiting, Retaining, and Empowering Girls in Agricultural Mechanics

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Recruiting girls into Agricultural Mechanics pathways is only the first step - creating a culture where they thrive is what makes all the difference. In this workshop, participants will discover practical strategies to recruit girls, build confidence, foster belonging, and create a culture where students are truly Built to Belong. Learn practical, ready-to-use ideas to increase retention in the...
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Speakers

Kisia Holland

Agricultural Educator, Farmington School District, AR

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Effective AI Integration in Pre-Service Teacher Preparation

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming teaching and learning, creating new opportunities for teacher educators to better prepare future agricultural educators. This interactive workshop will explore practical strategies for integrating AI throughout pre-service teacher preparation while emphasizing ethical use, instructional decision-making, and authentic learning. Participants will...
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Speakers

Jon Ramsey

Professor, Oklahoma State University

Dr. Ramsey anchors his teaching philosophy on student success. He believes students are a direct reflection of the program, institution, and faculty. In addition, he focuses his teaching on preparing students who have identified school-based agricultural education as their college... Read More →

Robert Terry Jr.

Professor, Oklahoma State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Guess Who to Greenhouse: Making Plant Disorder Classification Click

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Does your person have glasses? No! Does your person have long hair? Yes! How does the game "Guess Who" relate to plant disorders? Join us as we explore strategies for engaging students in scientific classification, guiding them through the process of building their own dichotomous keys, and challenging their critical thinking all while keeping learning active and exciting.

Speakers

Brianna Lammers

Agricultural Educator

Morgan Looten

Agricultural Educator

Ryan Weed

Agricultural Educator

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

How the ?&!@# Do We Get Parents on Board?: Building a Work-Ready Culture Beyond the Classroom

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Today's students are surrounded by adults who care deeply about their success—but sometimes that support unintentionally prevents them from developing the resilience, responsibility, and independence needed to thrive. This workshop explores how parents, employers, volunteers, alumni, advisory committees, and community members can become partners in building work-ready students rather than...
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Speakers

Kasee Smith

Professor, University of Idaho

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

SAE Tips and Connections for FFA Award Success Using AET

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

This session will cover SAE setup tips and key areas of record keeping that can also help your students' FFA Awards. More current and accurate records can teach students important skills and also lead to improved award applications at all levels (State or National)

Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Howdy! I have spent the past 25 years helping programs track and promote educational experiences using both economic and learning outcomes, but in 2007, I partnered with a great team to develop an online system that is now used annually by over 800,000 students and 9,000 education... Read More →

Ben Meyer

State Resource Specialist, The AET

Supporting CTE teachers and states with efficient, usable SAE and WBL record keeping that is student led and easy for educators.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Sweet Sheep Genetics

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

As we push the boundaries of livestock advancements, new challenges and groundbreaking solutions emerge. Here is your chance to immerse yourself into genetics while gaining a hands-on activity to introduce into your classroom with the latest genetic innovation. In this workshop, you will crossbreed sheep and predict which genetic diseases may show up – diseases the industry is working hard to...
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Speakers

Zane Webster

Agricultural Educator, Kirtland Central High School, NM

Jese Shell

Agricultural Educator

Clayton Thomas

Agricultural Educator, NAAE Agriscience Ambassador/ Jack Hille Middle School

I am an agricultural educator and passionate advocate for accessible, relevant agricultural education. Originally from Bloomington, Illinois, I did not grow up on a farm but discovered my passion for agriculture through 4-H and an agriculture class in high school. I earned my B.S... Read More →

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

The Balancing Act of Ag Education

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Creating a program that balances the Ag Ed World of Classroom, FFA, and Supervised Agricultural Experiences can feel like a true balancing act. In this workshop you will explore free turn-key resources that can help you to find the perfect balance for your program. You will leave with lesson plans, engaging student activities, and planning tools to assist you in conquering the balancing act!

Speakers

Megan McGrady

Manager, Education Development, National FFA Organization

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

The Power of the Flower: Teaching the STEM in Floral Design through Scientific Inquiry

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Have you ever received flowers? How did they make you feel!? This workshop examines the impact that floral arrangements can have on people. Combine creativity with science in this unique workshop where you will learn to integrate floral design and plant repotting as the foundation for authentic scientific investigation. You will practice building bud vases, then discover how to guide students...
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Speakers

Catherine DiBenedetto

Associate Professor, Clemson University

Rustie Robison

Graduate Research Assistant, Clemson University

Rustie graduated from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, in 2001, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Rustie moved to Colorado to attend Colorado State University to study Horticulture and Entomology. While working in the labs and greenhouses there, she decided to pursue teaching... Read More →

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Weeding Out Misinformation: Tools for Teaching Media Literacy in Agriculture

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

This interactive workshop equips high school agricultural educators with practical strategies to help students recognize and evaluate misinformation and disinformation in agricultural media. Participants will explore key differences between these concepts, examine real-world examples, and engage in activities designed to build critical thinking skills. The session emphasizes classroom-ready tools...
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Speakers

Brooke Thiel

Associate Professor, North Dakota State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Planting Pride, Growing Leaders: Weaving Cultural Identity into Agriculture Education and FFA Programs

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Discover how culturally responsive agriculture education can increase student engagement, leadership development, and academic success. This workshop shares practical strategies for integrating Indigenous knowledge, local traditions, community connections, and student cultural identity into agriculture curriculum, SAE programs, and FFA Activities. Participants will explore real work examples from...
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Speakers

Vickie Lake

Agricultural Educator, Shiprock High School, NM

Howdy, I am an Agriculture Teacher/FFA Advisor from Shiprock High School; Shiprock, NM serving students on the Navajo Nation. I've been teaching agriculture since 2000 and have been passionate about helping students discover their potential through agriculture, FFA, SAE, and hands... Read More →

Zane Webster

Agricultural Educator, Kirtland Central High School, NM

Wednesday December 2, 2026 1:30pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

10 Ready to Use Ag Program Automations: Save Time with AI, Apple Shortcuts, and Workflow Hacks For Your Ag Program

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

It's easy to feel drained by the never ending "to do" list of being an Ag teacher, managing a unique blend of classroom, FFA chapter, shop/greenhouse inventory, and SAE supervision. This hands-on session transforms agricultural educators from 'survival mode' to 'systems mode.' Learn practical automation workflows specifically for Ag Ed. We'll use Google Gems for instant help with event planning,...
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Speakers

Gwen Heimerdinger

Agricultural Educator, Winnebago High School, IL

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Automated Agriculture: Integrating Robotics and Automation into your Agriscience Curriculum

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Discover how robotics, automation, coding, and hands-on problem solving are transforming modern agriculture and inspiring the next generation of learners. This engaging workshop introduces educators to the Agricultural Robotics and Automation Technologies (ARAT) National Science Foundation project. Teachers will learn about innovative, classroom-ready modules that can be integrated into...
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Speakers

Carl Aakre

CASE 4 Learning Director, National Council for Agricultural Education

I began working with CASE 4 Learning (Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education) in 2009 when I became a Lead Teacher and assisted in developing the Principles of Agriculture – Plant course. I have been involved in curriculum development for Agricultural Mechanics and Engineering... Read More →

John Bergin

CASE 4 Learning Curriculum Director, National Council for Agricultural Education

I taught Ag Education in Kansas for 12 years before stepping into the role as CASE Curriculum Director.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Beyond the Practicum: Making the Vet Science CDE Work in Your Animal Science Classroom

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

This workshop explores strategies for integrating the Veterinary Science FFA CDE into classroom instruction to increase student engagement and contest readiness. Participants will receive ready-to-use resources including guided handouts, personality assessments and rubrics for veterinary practicums. Emphasis will be placed on connecting technical skill development and classroom content by adapting...
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Speakers

Emily Haley

Agricultural Educator, Cannon County High School, TN

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Cattleman's Choice - The Monthly Real World Bull Buying Experience!

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Cattle production varies greatly across the U.S. and worldwide. The Cattleman's Choice contest allows chapters to engage their students to learn about this diverse production system. The virtual monthly contest allows chapters to think about cattle production by getting in the mind of a commercial cattleman or cattlewoman who is buying bulls for their herd. This contest is designed to allow...
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Speakers

Justin Crosswhite

Youth Livestock Specialist, Oklahoma State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Finding Your Leadership Niche: Being Intentional about Filling my Leadership Thirst

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Your leadership is needed and valued! Finding your niche in navigating fulfilling leadership opportunities without biting off too much. Whether in your school, community, or professional organizations, leadership opportunities abound. This workshop will provide strategies to develop a personal service plan to engage with purpose. Your leadership is needed, to be your best requires a plan!

Speakers

Jesse Faber

Agricultural Educator, Pontiac Township High School, IL

Riley Hintzsche

Agricultural Educator, Lasalle-Peru High School, IL

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

From Question to Conclusion: Building an Agriscience Research Program That Works

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Agriscience research can feel overwhelming for both teachers and students. Learn how our three-course agriscience pathway guides more than 200 students annually through authentic agricultural research projects from question selection to final paper submission. Participants will explore a scaffolded system that emphasizes student choice across all AFNR pathways while providing the structure...
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Speakers

Cameron Standridge

Agricultural Educator, Elk Grove High School, CA

Madison Albiani

Agricultural Educator, Elk Grove High School, CA

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Leading Learning: Effective Facilitation for Student Success or Creating Engagement Through Effective Classroom Facilitation Techniques

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

This interactive workshop, based on strategies and practices from the DELTA Leadership Conference, will help educators strengthen student engagement by refining their classroom facilitation skills. Participants will explore how intentional communication techniques, including economy of language, clear expectations, purposeful questioning, and effective direction-giving, can increase student...
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Speakers

Kelly Hoelting

Agricultural Educator, Mission Valley USD, KS

I am beginning year 26 at Mission Valley teaching agricultural education. I love being an Ag teacher and mom. I love helping other teachers in the classroom and learning how to teach every student, every day.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Modeling Success: Low-Cost Simulations for Animal Science

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Enhance your students' animal and vet science knowledge with these simple, cost-effective, creative hands-on simulations. Through interactive labs and discussions, participants will gain insights into veterinary science and animal industry practices, leaving with practical tools to enrich students' learning environments worldwide. Participants will create a cattle castration model and an IV...
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Speakers

Javonne Mullins

Lecturer, The Ohio State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Preparing Pre-Service Teachers to Manage Conflict

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Conflict is an inevitable part of teaching, yet many beginning teachers feel underprepared to navigate challenging interpersonal situations. This workshop focuses on equipping pre-service agricultural educators with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage conflict with students, parents, colleagues, administrators, and community stakeholders. Participants will explore practical...
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Speakers

Brian Warnick

Professor, Utah State University

Tyson Sorensen

Associate Professor, Utah State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

SAE like a Pro!

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Learn how to help students begin and grow their SAE. Engage through meaningful discussion and turn-key resources to help connect student interests and begin mapping out SAE plans. You will leave with tools and resources to SAE like a Pro!

Speakers

Megan McGrady

Manager, Education Development, National FFA Organization

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

Skip the Scalpel: Creative, Hands-On Alternatives to Animal Dissections That Still Deliver Meaningful Learning

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST

TBA

Looking for engaging alternatives to traditional dissections? This workshop explores innovative, ethical, and hands-on ways to teach anatomy without the need for animal specimens. Participants will discover interactive models, simulations, labs, and classroom strategies that maintain rigor while increasing student comfort and accessibility. Learn how to implement cost-effective, ready-to-use...
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Speakers

Joanna Keaton Carter

Agricultural Educator, Vista Middle School, NM

Sydney Linberg

Agricultural Educator, Zia Middle School, NM

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 4:15pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

National Agriscience Teacher Ambassador Annual Symposium

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 5:30pm CST

TBA

All ambassadors from 2003-present are invited to attend; preregistration required.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 3:00pm - 5:30pm CST
TBA

4:30pm CST

Explore CASE's IAB Curriculum through Biotech Industry Perspectives on Agricultural Research, Manufacturing, and Product Development Processes

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

This workshop introduces participants to Investigating Agricultural Biotechnology (IAB), a CASE curriculum designed to help students explore the science, skills, and industry applications of agricultural biotechnology. Participants will gain an overview of how the curriculum connects classroom learning to real-world biotechnology research, product development, and manufacturing processes. The...
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Speakers

Carl Aakre

CASE 4 Learning Director, National Council for Agricultural Education

Jen Russell

CASE 4 Learning Curriculum Coordinator, National Council for Agricultural Education

Santiago Navarro

Technology Innovation Scientist, Bayer

Scientist with 26 years of industry experience developing agricultural products. Grew up in Ecuador and love using cell biology & imaging to understand how things work and accelerate discoveries. Now I also spend time sharing what I have learned through mentoring and supporting e... Read More →

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Foundational SAEs Made Easy in AET

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

This session will cover AET's simple Foundational SAE entries to help students get started, and programs reach 100% SAEs. This is also part of the free AETBasic system, so learn how these tools work and help get your student's SAE started. We will also cover classroom educational resources to help you implement Foundational SAEs.

Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Ben Meyer

State Resource Specialist, The AET

Supporting CTE teachers and states with efficient, usable SAE and WBL record keeping that is student led and easy for educators.

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

From Classroom to Community: Building the Relationships that Grow and Sustain Ag Programs

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Strong agricultural education programs are not built in isolation. They grow when teachers intentionally develop relationships with administrators, counselors, district leaders, school board members, elected officials, industry partners, parents, and community stakeholders. This workshop will help agricultural educators think strategically about program advocacy, communication, recruitment, and...
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Speakers

Emily Marshall

CTE Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Rutherford County Schools, TN

John Marshall

Principal, Oakland High School, TN

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

From Risk to Resilience: Equipping Agriculture Students with Essential Farm Risk Management Skills

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Bring agricultural risk management to life in your classroom with Farming is Risky Business (FRB). This interactive workshop introduces educators to an engaging, classroom-ready workshop that help students understand the risks facing today's agricultural producers and the tools available to manage them. Participants will explore the FRB workshop, mini courses, and upcoming case studies while...
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Speakers

Aubrianne Meek

Event Coordinator & Presenter, Custom Ag Solutions

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

More Than a Dollar: Helping Students Understand the Beef Checkoff

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Give your students a better understanding of the Beef Checkoff and why it matters to their future in the beef industry. We'll cover a quick Beef Checkoff 101, share Checkoff-funded resources you can use in your classroom and explore why future producers should understand where the dollar goes. You'll leave with practical information, helpful resources and ideas for getting students more involved...
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Speakers

Bradon Burks

Director of Education, Kentucky Beef Council

Davis English

Sr. Manager of Checkoff Education, Cattlemen's Beef Board

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Own the Narrative: Advocacy for your Program in the School, Community & Region

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Discover practical strategies to grow and strengthen agricultural education programs through purposeful advocacy, marketing, alumni engagement, and community partnerships. In this workshop, participants will explore real-world approaches to increasing program awareness, boosting student enrollment, building alumni support, and creating meaningful connections with local businesses and stakeholders....
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Speakers

Kayla Loewenhagen

Agricultural Educator, Fall Creek Schools, WI

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Play Your Cards Right: Classroom Learning with Card Games

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Just a Card Game shows teachers how to turn simple card games into engaging learning activities. Participants will learn how to create cards that help students recognize, match, recall, and apply content using familiar games like Spoons, Go Fish, Guess Who, and Memory.

Speakers

Emily Haley

Agricultural Educator, Cannon County High School, TN

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Reeling in Success: Integrating Rod Building and Lure Design into your Ag Program

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Are you looking for a high-interest project that bridges the gap between Ag Mechanics, Natural Resources, and STEM? Join us for an immersive look at how custom rod building and lure design can transform your classroom engagement.

Speakers

Emily Johnson

Agricultural Educator, Clear Lake School District, WI

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Supporting Alternatively Certified Agricultural Educators: Micro‑Credentials, Mentorship, and Sustainable Pathways to Success

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

As the demand for qualified agricultural educators continues to outpace supply, alternative certification pathways have become critical to sustaining agricultural education programs nationwide. Although alternatively certified teachers often bring strong industry experience and content expertise, they frequently report challenges related to pedagogy, classroom management, program administration,...
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Speakers

Robert Terry Jr.

Professor, Oklahoma State University

Chris Eck

Associate Professor, Oklahoma State University

Morgan Sweeney

PhD Student, Oklahoma State University

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

The Standard of Excellence: Fair, Fast, and Functional Officer Elections

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Whether you are new to FFA elections or a seasoned advisor, the Officer election process can bring the most stress: From parent phone calls, to student heartbreak. In this session we will dive deep into a step-by-step guide to a transparent process that parents and students will actually respect, ensuring that by the time the slate is posted, the results are indisputable.

Speakers

Emily Johnson

Agricultural Educator, Clear Lake School District, WI

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

Your Classroom Will Never Look the Same

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Agricultural science is ever evolving. We must adapt our classrooms to the changing landscape of technology and education. How do you provide your students with more hands-on exploration of agricultural and science concepts? VR could be your answer! Stop by and see how you can integrate Virtual Reality into your agriculture, mechanics, and science classes to bring your curriculum to life!

Speakers

Donna Page

Agricultural Educator, Rochelle Township High School, IL

Nelson Baker

Science Educator, Rochelle Township High School, IL

Wednesday December 2, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

8:00am CST

Teachers Turn the Key Professional Development Sessions III

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 10:30am CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 10:30am CST
TBA

Teachers Turn the Key

8:00am CST

XLR8 – Experienced Teacher Professional Development Sessions III

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 10:30am CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 10:30am CST
TBA

XLR8

8:00am CST

NAAE Convention Registration

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm CST

TBA

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
TBA

Convention Registration

8:15am CST

ACTE Opening General Session

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:45am CST

TBA

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:45am CST
TBA

10:00am CST

ACTE CareerTech Expo

Thursday December 3, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Thursday December 3, 2026 10:00am - 4:30pm CST
TBA

11:30am CST

NAAE General Session Luncheon

Thursday December 3, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CST

TBA

Featuring Outstanding Early Career Teacher, Outstanding Ag Teacher, Lifetime Achievement, and Visionary Impact and Outstanding Service Awards.

Thursday December 3, 2026 11:30am - 1:30pm CST
TBA

NAAE General Sessions

1:45pm CST

Advancing Parliamentary Mastery Through Inquiry

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Designed for experienced parliamentarians, this interactive workshop leverages robust question-and-answer dialogue to explore how inquiry and problem-based instructional approaches can deepen parliamentary understanding and elevate competitive and instructional performance. Instructional team includes professional parliamentarian and master educator who is a National Agriscience Ambassador.

Speakers

Daniel Foster

Associate Professor, The Pennsylvania State University

I am a passionate individual looking to make a positive difference in the world around me. 7th Generation Texan. I previously taught secondary agriculture in Willcox, Arizona and I am currently a faculty member at Penn State in Agricultural Teacher Education and co-founder of the... Read More →

Krista Pontius

Agricultural Educator, Greenwood School District, PA

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Better Together: How to Co-Teach, Co-Advise, and Stay Sane in Multi-Teacher Programs

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

As agricultural education programs continue to grow, multi-teacher departments are becoming increasingly common. While these programs offer expanded opportunities for students, they also present unique challenges in communication, program management, and shared responsibilities. This workshop will provide practical strategies for building effective multi-teacher programs that enhance student...
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Speakers

Matthew Barnhill

Agricultural Educator, Corinth Holders High School, NC

Ashley Holloman

Agricultural Educator, Corinth Holders High School, NC

Over the past 13 years, I have had the privilege of teaching Foundations of Agriculture and Animal Science at Corinth Holders High School. My passion lies in connecting students to agriculture and helping them realize its significant impact on their lives.Growing up without a direct... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Building Connections with School Administrators

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Strong partnerships between agricultural education teacher educators and school administrators are essential for preparing highly qualified teachers and supporting successful school-based agricultural education programs. This interactive workshop will explore strategies for establishing, strengthening, and sustaining relationships with principals, district administrators, and career and technical...
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Speakers

Tre Easterly

Assistant Professor, University of Florida

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Churning up in AG Class!

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

It's butter! But so much more. From packaging design and recipes to butter making in class and taste testing, students will be able to follow the steps in creating a new food product. Learn how to make butter why incorporating it into your agriscience course.

Speakers

Sarah Mcnall

Agricultural Educator, Cienega High School, AZ

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Creating the Conditions for Effective and Sustainable Work-Based Learning (SAE) Programs

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

As a result of the conditions created by policy changes brought forth by the Indiana State Board of Education, Indiana Pork developed and piloted a Work-Based Learning for Agriculture Program to help address labor shortage concerns expressed by Indiana pork producers and pork related industries. The pilot, based on data collected and analyzed through a partnership with Ascend Indiana, was...
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Speakers

Byron Ernest

Founder, Leadery Global

Chad Martin

Director of Strategic Outreach, Indiana Pork Producers Association

Haley Graf

Intern, Indiana Pork Producers Association

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Cultivating Belonging: Diverse Histories and Shared Futures in Agriculture Education

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Agriculture education should be a space where all students feel seen, valued, and connected. This interactive workshop explores the cultural history of agriculture education through a "where we've been, where we are, and where we're going" framework while highlighting Native American, African American, and Latino agricultural histories, contributions, and cultural practices. Whether you teach in a...
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Speakers

Taleek Harlee

Agricultural Educator, Purnell Swett High School, NC

Jasmine Locklear

Agriculture Education and Special Projects Coordinator, Tribal Agriculture Fellowship, ND

Amador Gonzales

CTE Instructor, Las Vegas City Schools, NM

Lori Hoppe

Agricultural Educator, Gardnier High School, MT

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Curiosity Before Compliance: Creating Inquiry-Driven Agricultural Education Classrooms Students Want to Be In

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Agricultural education is uniquely positioned to cultivate curiosity through hands-on learning, real-world problem solving, and authentic experiences. However, many classrooms still struggle with student engagement when learning becomes focused solely on compliance and task completion. This interactive workshop explores how inquiry-based learning can transform agricultural education classrooms by...
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Speakers

Alan Parker

Agricultural Educator, Hagerman Municipal Schools, NM

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Curiosity to Career-Ready: Igniting Inquiry in Ag Education

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Transform your classroom into a space full of limitless learning and career success! This high energy, hands-on workshop will equip you with inquiry-based strategies that seamlessly integrate into any agricultural education pathway. Join us to learn how easy it can be to add inquiry-based instruction to any lesson. Strategies that this workshop will highlight include turning resume writing into a...
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Speakers

Kaylee Stone

Agricultural Educator, Spanish Fork High School

Julie Branen

Agricultural Educator

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Managing Your Chapter Smarter with AET Tools

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Take your chapter organization and efficiency to the next level using powerful management tools within The AET. This workshop will focus on practical features such as the POA & Strategic Plan Manager, Meeting Manager, student participation point tracking, and QR code tools for quickly checking students into events and activities. Learn how to streamline chapter operations, improve student...
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Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Vanessa Kirby

Director of Support, The AET

Hi! I’m Vanessa Kirby, Director of Support for AET (Agricultural Experience Tracker), professional problem-solver, teacher cheerleader, and firm believer that record-keeping doesn’t have to be stressful! A big part of my job is working alongside agricultural educators to help... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

National FFA Chapter Connect: How to Unite FFA Chapters, Strengthen Relationships, and Create Lasting, Collaborative Impact

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

National FFA Chapter Connect is a yearlong program that pairs chapters from different backgrounds, across the country, to build relationships, collaborate, and learn from one another through shared experiences. Discover how this initiative fosters meaningful connections while strengthening student leadership and advisor practice. This session will highlight the program's structure and core...
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Speakers

Lloyd Daley-Graham

Staff Member, National FFA Organization

Seely Daniels

Agricultural Educator, Williston Basin School District #7

Riley Hintzsche

Agricultural Educator, Lasalle-Peru High School, IL

Jason Bullock

Agricultural Educator, Tacoma Public Schools

Ag Teacher by Choice; TEACH THEM WELL!; NC State (‘04, ‘08, ‘23); Teacher; Singer! Share your story! Speak your truth! Protect your peace! #diversity #inclusion #equity #belonging

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

Orange You Excited for Surgery?! - A Low Cost and Lab-Based Approach to Using Veterinary Equipment in the Classroom

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Content Specific (please specify what content area)

Speakers

Jacob Blank

Agricultural Educator, School of the Osage, MO

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:45pm CST

When Pigs Fly! Introducing Inquiry to Middle or High School Students

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST

TBA

Can pigs really fly? Maybe. More importantly, can your students think critically to solve challenges? Absolutely, if you attend this workshop. Join us as we share a memorable way to “launch” inquiry for your middle school and/or high school students. This fun, exciting, and classroom-ready inquiry activity will immediately capture your student’s attention. In this interactive workshop, take...
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Speakers

Cameron Frazier

Agricultural Educator, South Putnam MS/ HS

Jared Parks

Agricultural Educator

Thursday December 3, 2026 1:45pm - 3:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Barriers and Resources for Teaching Precision Agriculture for High School Teachers

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

Do you want to incorporate precision agriculture curriculum but don't know where to start? Join us for a conversation about careers, skills, and curriculum for teaching precision agriculture. We will discuss research on barriers to precision agriculture adoption and how to work with local specialists to bring hands-on learning to students. We will also share our pilot precision agriculture...
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Speakers

John Tummons

Associate Professor, University of Missouri

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Building Administrator Capacity to Strengthen Agricultural Education Programs

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

This session is based on a successful administrator-focused workshop delivered during the Montana Agricultural Education Administrator Track. Designed to build awareness and capacity among school leaders, this model provides a structured approach to helping administrators better understand and support agricultural education programs. The session also highlights how intentional engagement with...
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Speakers

Shannon Boswell

Director of Career, Technical and Adult Education, Montana Office of Public Instruction

A career and technical education professional for 21 years. Starting as an agricultural education teacher for 13 years and spending the past eight years at the Montana Office of Public Instruction in Career, Technical and Adult Education.

Carl D. Perkins federal funding
State... Read More →

Eric Tilleman

Agricultural Education Specialist, Montana Office of Public Instruction

I’m Eric Tilleman, an Agriculture Education Specialist with the Montana Office of Public Instruction and a longtime agriculture educator and advocate for Career and Technical Education. I’m passionate about connecting education, agriculture, business, and communities to create... Read More →

Abbey Dunn

Agricultural Educator, Baker Public Schools, MT

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Canning and Culinary Chemistry

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

This interactive canning workshop equips agriculture teachers with practical food preservation knowledge they can immediately implement in the classroom. Participants will discover canning techniques while exploring how food preservation supports intracurricular instruction through science, math, literacy, business, and career readiness standards. Highlights include strategies for integrating...
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Speakers

Jessica Ross

Agricultural Educator, Hendersonville High School, TN

I’m blessed to be a wife, mom, and ag teacher! I’ve been married for 6 years and have a 2 year old daughter. They are my why! My cup is filled by all things family, DIY projects, and curling up with a good book! Food preservation and “homesteading” are my passion projects... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Chapter Level Degrees andAawards in AET - Discovery, Greenhand, and Chapter Degrees

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

This workshop provides a step-by-step walkthrough of managing chapter-level degrees and awards within AET. Participants will learn how to track student progress, verify requirements, and submit Discovery, Greenhand, and Chapter Degree applications directly through the platform all culminating in the automatic generation of banquet award certificates for your members! Whether you're new to AET or...
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Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Ben Meyer

State Resource Specialist, The AET

Supporting CTE teachers and states with efficient, usable SAE and WBL record keeping that is student led and easy for educators.

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Defining Success to Save Your Career, Your Sanity, and Your Program

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

Somewhere along the way, the pressure to "win" has shifted our focus, leading many Ag teachers to believe that state rankings and blue banners are the only true measures of professional and program worth. Is this the only type of success? This hands-on strategy session is for any teacher, especially 1st - 5th year teachers, who feels the pressure of the "make or break" culture many Ag programs...
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Speakers

Gwen Heimerdinger

Agricultural Educator, Winnebago High School, IL

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

SHOW WHAT YOU GROW - "Telling Your Ag Programs Story"

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

As Agricultural Educators, we spend our days growing the future — cultivating plants, raising livestock, and developing the next generation of leaders. But somewhere between the lesson plans, contests, practices, and late nights, many of us forget to showcase the incredible impact we're making every single day. It's time to change that. Join us for an engaging, high-energy workshop where we'll...
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Speakers

Cade Fiske

Agricultural Educator, Mission Valley USD, KS

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Tacos, Teachers, & T-Shirts-Using Ag Communication Tools to Market Ag Education

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

Creating an understanding of the depth and breadth of agriculture can be challenging and sometimes an uphill battle. Learn how a small, fun, and interactive idea can change the trajectory of how colleagues and students view ag, ag education, and the impact it has on your community.

Speakers

Riley Hintzsche

Agricultural Educator, Lasalle-Peru High School, IL

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:15pm CST

Using Trailer Fabrication and Scaling to Include All Students in Ag Mechanics

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST

TBA

This workshop will discuss building three trailers. One full size, one a 1/4 scale, and one a 1/8 scale. Attendees will be shown how scaling projects can be applied through many different builds and how all students can be involved in some way. Let's be honest, some students tend to take over projects. With this lesson, classroom management skills and skill assessment will be practiced so that all...
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Speakers

Trevor Higgins

Agricultural Educator, Cannon County High School, TN

Thursday December 3, 2026 3:15pm - 3:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Ag Teachers on the Go: Plans That Hold It Together

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Ag Teachers do not normally have the luxury of a "normal" day out of the classroom - between FFA Events, Field Trips, or Professional Development, being gone is a part of the job. This session will focus on creating practical, low-stress substitute plans that actually work through your entire program. Walk away with ready-to-use templates, adaptable activities and strategies for...
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Speakers

Bailey Hawbaker

Agricultural Educator, Stanley Public Schools, ND

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Beyond the Bouquet: Creative Teaching & Assessment Strategies for Floral Design Classrooms

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Floral design courses blend creativity, technical skill, and career readiness, but evaluating student work can be challenging. This workshop will share practical strategies for assessing floral design projects using industry-based rubrics, Career Development Event materials, digital portfolios, and technology tools. Participants will explore ways to incorporate photo documentation, student...
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Speakers

Amy Morrison

Agricultural Educator, Mount Vernon High School, WA

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Connecting Dots in Career Exploration

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Looking to connect the dots between classroom and industry? Learn about engaging strategies, interactive tools, and exciting activities for career readiness and industry knowledge. From the first step in understanding the careers that exist to exploring the path best suited, you will leave with leave with everything you need to help guide students in connecting the dots in their career exploration...
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Speakers

Megan McGrady

Manager, Education Development, National FFA Organization

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Farm, Fork, and Forensics: Multi-disciplinary CTE Instruction

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Discover how CTE can bring multiple disciplines together through engaging, real-world learning experiences. This session explores innovative strategies that merge agriculture, culinary arts, criminal justice and critical thinking through immersive, problem-based learning. Classroom activities may include conducting mock food safety investigations, analyzing nutrition labels, tracing ingredients...
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Speakers

Jason Griffith

Agricultural Educator, Ionia County Career Center, MI

I have been an agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor in Ionia for 32 years. I will be presenting on cross-curricular programming and how we have used collaboration between programs at ICCC to increase the depth and relevance of our lessons.Over the past year, we have also... Read More →

Elena Brooks

Culinary Arts Instructor, Ionia County Career Center, MI

I am a Culinary Arts instructor at the Ionia County Career Center. I will be presenting on cross-curricular programming and how collaboration among programs at ICCC has increased the depth and relevance of our lessons. Over the past year, I have also been exploring the use of artificial... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

From Classroom to Career: Helping Agriculture Students Navigate Postsecondary Education AND Workforce Pathways

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Agricultural educators play a critical role in helping students navigate what happens after high school graduation: apprenticeships, technical college, community college, four-year college, career entry, military, and workforce opportunities. Drawing on recent research examining agricultural education participation and postsecondary success in rural communities, this session explores practical...
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Speakers

Chaney Mosley

Associate Professor, Middle Tennessee State University

Karen Eppley

Director of the Rural Education Center and an Associate Professor, Kansas State University

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Greenhouse Enterprise: From Students to Employees. Tips for running your greenhouse program like a small business.

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Running a classroom while running a greenhouse is HARD. Turning your greenhouse classroom into an employment-style environment gives students ownership, incentivizes manual labor, and allows students to take on management roles (thus giving you time to run sale logistics).

Speakers

Hailey Gates

Agricultural Educator, Hendersonville High School, TN

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Growing More Than Plants: Hands-On Hydroponics in the Ag Classroom

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Hydroponics doesn't have to be expensive to make a big impact in the classroom. This workshop will showcase how low-cost hydroponic systems can transform agricultural education into a hands-on, engaging learning experience for students. Participants will explore affordable setup ideas, simple classroom systems, student-led activities, and practical management strategies that make hydroponics...
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Speakers

Joanna Keaton Carter

Agricultural Educator, Vista Middle School, NM

Sydney Linberg

Agricultural Educator, Zia Middle School, NM

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Teaching to Bloom Experiential Floral Design in Horticulture

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Looking to expand your horticulture program beyond traditional greenhouse management? This workshop will showcase an experiential floral subscription program where students move from learning floral design to applying them through real world applications. Workshop participants will gain insight into project logistics, budgeting, and creating meaningful experiences that connect students with their...
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Speakers

Gracie Norris

Agricultural Educator, Oologah-Talala Public Schools, OK

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Visuals, Voice, and Vocabulary: Teaching Strategies for ELL Students

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Agricultural education classrooms are rich with hands-on learning, technical vocabulary, and real-world applications—but for English Language Learners (ELLs), these experiences can also present unique challenges. This workshop equips agricultural educators with practical, easy-to-implement strategies to make content more accessible and engaging for all students. Participants will explore...
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Speakers

Whitney Evans

Agricultural Educator, Seneca High School, KY

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Who's Living Rent-Free? The Art of Identifying Parasites

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Teaching veterinary science requires that agriculture teachers be able to introduce their students to a wide range of topics, such as animal CPR and parasite identification. Due to limited training within agricultural teacher education programs, teaching parasite identification in an engaging manner often remains a challenge for agriculture teachers. This workshop is designed to help agriculture...
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Speakers

Trent Wells

Associate Professor, Murray State University, KY

Hazel Duckworth

Murray State University, KY

Kaylyn Zeigler

Murray State University, KY

Jacee McKeel

Murray State University, KY

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:00pm CST

Wildlife Detectives: Bringing Wildlife Biology into your Ag Classroom

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

A farmer reports wildlife damage. Who did it? CSI: Wildlife invites students to become wildlife detectives in an engaging, hands-on learning experience. What animal damaged the soybean field? What predator visited the coop? Students will investigate a wildlife mystery using tracks, skulls, fur, feeding evidence, habitat clues, and trail camera photos to identify species and uncover the culprits...
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Speakers

Melanie Block

Agricultural Educator, Ravenna Public Schools

Ag Teacher | FFA Advisor | 4-H leader | Trevor & Peyton's Mom | Cancer Survivor

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

4:30pm CST

NAAE Members and Parnters Reception

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CST

TBA

Thursday December 3, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CST
TBA

8:00am CST

NAAE Region I Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Region II Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Region III Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Region IV Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Region V Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Region VI Meeting

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am CST
TBA

Regional Meetings

8:00am CST

NAAE Convention Registration

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 8:00am - 1:00pm CST
TBA

Convention Registration

9:30am CST

Advocacy in Agricultural Education Committee Discussion Forum

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST
TBA

Committee Discussion Forums

9:30am CST

Member Experience Committee Discussion Forum

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST
TBA

Committee Discussion Forums

9:30am CST

Professional Development Committee Discussion Forum

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST
TBA

Committee Discussion Forums

9:30am CST

Recruitment, Retention, and Recognition Committee Discussion Forum

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST

TBA

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am CST
TBA

Committee Discussion Forums

9:30am CST

Future Agriscience Teacher (FAST) Symposium Session II

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 1:00pm CST

TBA

By invitation only.

Friday December 4, 2026 9:30am - 1:00pm CST
TBA

Future Agriscience Teacher Symposium

11:00am CST

XLR8 2.0

Friday December 4, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST

TBA

All former participants of the NAAE XLR8 program are invited to attend; preregistration required.

Friday December 4, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
TBA

XLR8 2.0

11:30am CST

Banquet Blueprint: Planning and Hosting a Successful FFA Banquet Without the Stress

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

FFA banquets are one of the most important traditions in agricultural education, but planning them can quickly become overwhelming. This workshop will provide agriculture teachers and FFA advisors with practical strategies, organizational tools, and time-saving systems for hosting a successful and memorable FFA banquet. Participants will learn tips and tricks for banquet planning, student...
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Speakers

Jessica Gute

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Raul Perea

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Sharlae Brown

Agricultural Educator, Las Cruces High School, NM

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

Creating a Culture of Collaboration in Your Classroom

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

This workshop will focus on utilizing specific engagement strategies to establish a classroom culture of collaboration. Participants will apply basic principles of collaboration through hands-on activities while discovering ways to encourage and establish collaboration among secondary and post-secondary students. This will be a highly engaging workshop with anecdotal evidence to show how...
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Speakers

Rebekah Epps

Associate Professor, University of Kentucky

UK Associate Professor Agricultural Education Program

Josie Kurtz

University of Kentucky

Meagan Winstead

University of Kentucky

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

Free Educator Resources to Put the Ag Ed Pieces Together

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Creating the best program can feel like putting a puzzle together and figuring out how to fill in the missing pieces. Find your missing puzzle pieces through teacher-tested and approved free educator resources. You will walk away with 'single' pieces to support units, and 'multiple' pieces specially curated to help fill in larger gaps. Walk away with the perfect pieces to complete your programs...
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Speakers

Megan McGrady

Manager, Education Development, National FFA Organization

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

From Classroom to Capitol: Advocating for Agricultural Education

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

This workshop will provide agricultural educators with practical tools and strategies to effectively engage in legislative advocacy at the local, state, and national levels. Participants will learn how policy decisions impact agricultural education programs, funding, and student opportunities, while gaining confidence in communicating with legislators, school boards, and community stakeholders....
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Speakers

Eric Tilleman

Agricultural Education Specialist, Montana Office of Public Instruction

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

Growing a Strong Classroom Culture: Classroom Management Strategies for the Complete Introvert

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Classroom management is frequently cited as one of the most difficult aspects of the profession by new and seasoned educators alike. Building a strong classroom culture with positive student relationships isn't something you can buy from a curriculum catalog. Fortunately, learning by experience isn't the only way to improve your classroom management repertoire! In this workshop presented by one of...
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Speakers

Kellan Standley

Agricultural Educator, Bainville School, MT

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

Scrubbing In: Bringing Veterinary Heart Surgery to Life in the Classroom

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Take veterinary science beyond basic dissection! Discover how combining real-world Cornell case studies with National FFA Vet Science CDE skills—like SOAP notes, dosage calculations, and surgical prep—builds student confidence in the classroom. Then, get ready to scrub in: participants will practice assembling budget-friendly surgical packs from everyday items, maintaining sterile fields, and...
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Speakers

Amanda Gagnè

Agricultural Educator, Penn Manor High School

I have had a passion for animals since I was a kid working on a 75 acre horse farm in central CT. We focused on agritourism having 80 horses but also cattle, pigs, alpacas, chickens and goats! We brought in groups from surrounding cities to educate about animals which lead me to be... Read More →

NAAE Ideas Unlimited VI pdf

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

Teacher Journaling in AET: Supporting Your Extended Contract

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Discover how Teacher Journaling in The AET can help agricultural educators document the time and effort invested beyond the regular school day. This workshop will focus on tracking extended-contract activities, including SAE visits, FFA events, after-school practices, professional development, travel, and community engagement. Participants will learn efficient journaling strategies, reporting...
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Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Vanessa Kirby

Director of Support, The AET

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

11:30am CST

The Standard of Excellence: Fair, Fast, and Functional Officer Elections

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Speakers

Emily Johnson

Agricultural Educator, Clear Lake School District, WI

Friday December 4, 2026 11:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

NAAE Assembly of Delegates

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

All voting delegates MUST attend.

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

1:30pm CST

"Be the Butcher" - Interactive Wholesale and Retail Cuts Activity

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

THIS ONE EATS…because your students won't just learn meat science—they'll build it with their own hands!! Bring your classroom to life with this hands-on, creative lesson designed to help students better understand meat science and carcass fabrication! "Be the Butcher" introduces an interactive activity where students use butcher paper, chalk, and teamwork to identify and create retail and...
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Speakers

Cade Fiske

Agricultural Educator, Mission Valley USD, KS

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Building Your Brand: Marketing Strategies for a Premier FFA Program

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

This workshop is designed for agricultural educators looking to strengthen their FFA program through intentional branding and marketing. Participants will explore practical strategies for building a recognizable chapter identity, promoting activities, and effectively communicating their program's impact to students, administrators, and the community. Through guided discussion and real-world...
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Speakers

David Reyes

Agricultural Educator, El Capitan High School, CA

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Capitol Report: Creating a Comprehensive Advocacy Plan for Engaging with State Governments

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Utilizing a systematic approach to creating and implementing a legislative plan. Using the framework and experience of other states to develop goals and set a path that is both aggressive and realistic for your state.

Speakers

Jesse Faber

Agricultural Educator, Pontiac Township High School, IL

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Educators Empowering Educators: Real-World Applications for Teaching Your Amazing Students about STEM through Global Food Waste & Insecurity

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

E3 Global Educator team leads this workshop focusing on raising student awareness about global food waste & insecurity. Connect with K-College educators about practical ways to teach STEM in Ag in ways that will engage and inspire them! Educators with 52 years' combined experience will lead you through research, content, application, and assessment methods tailored for your unique students. In...
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Speakers

Michelle Burrows

Assistant Professor, Utah State University

Kristin Korcha

Agricultural Educator, North Judson-San Pierre Jr./ Sr. High School, IN

Tyisha Johnson-Walton

Second Grade Teacher, Birmingham City Schools, AL

Brandon Bixler

Agricultural & Environmental Science Teacher, McCaskey High School

I am an Agricultural & Environmental Science Teacher at McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I am in the third year of career in education and have worked to build our school's agriculture program from the ground up over my time at McCaskey. I teach courses within our... Read More →

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Expanding Opportunities Outside of Coursework for Pre-service Teachers

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Preparing future agricultural education teachers extends beyond traditional coursework. This workshop highlights intentional co-curricular and extracurricular experiences that strengthen professional growth, leadership, and career readiness among pre-service teachers. Participants will explore strategies for engaging students in professional organizations, service-learning, research, outreach,...
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Speakers

Kellie Claflin

Assistant Professor, The Ohio State University

Javonne Mullins

Lecturer, The Ohio State University

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Learning on the Road: Designing Student Travel Experiences That Matter

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Student travel can be one of the most powerful tools in agricultural education—if it is done with purpose. This workshop will help teachers design meaningful travel experiences that go beyond logistics and create lasting learning. Drawing from real-world examples across competitions, industry tours, conventions, and field-based experiences, participants will explore practical systems for...
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Speakers

Trent Van Leuven

Agricultural Educator, Mackay High School #390, ID

Trent Van Leuven is the 2024 Idaho State Teacher of the Year and an agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor at Mackay High School in rural Idaho. Over more than 50,000 miles of educational travel across 32 states, he has built his teaching around the belief that some of... Read More →

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Measure Twice, Teach Once: Building Confidence in Ag Mechanics

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Content Specific (please specify what content area)

Speakers

Cameron Frazier

Agricultural Educator, South Putnam MS/ HS

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Promote and Share Your Chapter's Story through AET Data and Reports

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Discover how to leverage AET's powerful reporting tools to tell your program's story and showcase student achievement. This workshop explores the Economic Impact Report, the new one-row-per reporting format, and a variety of other chapter-level reports that can be used to communicate program value to administrators, communities, and award committees. Participants will leave with practical...
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Speakers

Roger Hanagriff

Owner, The AET

Ben Meyer

State Resource Specialist, The AET

Supporting CTE teachers and states with efficient, usable SAE and WBL record keeping that is student led and easy for educators.

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Stop Crippling Kids: How to Develop Real-World Leaders by Making Choices Matter

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

How often do we lament that kids in our classrooms won't do any work without having their hands held? If we say FFA is a student organization, then why does it feel like we as Advisors are doing everything to make it all happen? More importantly, if kids aren't "Doing to Learn", what happens when they graduate? In this workshop, teachers will discuss the role accountability and expectations play...
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Speakers

Kellan Standley

Agricultural Educator, Bainville School, MT

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

The Grizzly Greenhouse Mystery! A Mysterious Twist on Floral Identification

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Ready to turn your classroom into a thrilling mystery investigation? Join this workshop where you will dive into the fascinating world of flower morphology and become detectives in a high-stakes investigation! Get hands-on experience using a dichotomous key to identify floral species, with each correct identification bringing them one step closer to cracking the investigation. By matching plant...
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Speakers

Justice Fitzgerald

Agricultural Educator, Three Way High School

Coty Vannoy

Agricultural Educator

Erica Hart

Agricultural Educator

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

1:30pm CST

Viewing Agricultural Education Through an Administrator's Lens - What School Leaders Notice, Value, and Need to Support Your Program

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

TBA

Agricultural Education programs are among the most visible and impactful programs in a school, yet many teachers struggle to communicate their value, document their success, and advocate effectively for resources and support. This workshop helps Ag teachers understand how administrators evaluate programs, make decisions, allocate resources, and identify excellence. Participants will leave with...
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Speakers

Codi Montes-Dennis

Secondary Principal, Former Agricultural Education Teacher & FFA Advisor, Hagerman Schools, NM

Friday December 4, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
TBA

Professional Development

3:00pm CST

NAAE Closing General Session

Friday December 4, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CST

TBA

Featuring Ideas Unlimited Awards, Teacher Mentor Awards, Teachers Turn the Key, XLR8, and INFLUENCE recognition and NAAE Officer Installation.

Friday December 4, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CST
TBA

NAAE General Sessions

10:30am CST

ACTE Closing General Session

Saturday December 5, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CST

TBA

Saturday December 5, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm CST
TBA