By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist
College students pursuing a degree in agricultural education and preparing to student teach in spring 2023 can apply for scholarships from Texas Farm Bureau (TFB).
Every spring and fall, senior agricultural education students are encouraged to apply for Mia Balko Student Teaching Scholarships from TFB. The scholarship is awarded to four students each semester and is valued at $1,500.
The scholarship aims to help students cover expenses during their semester of off-campus student teaching.
“Agricultural science teachers play a critical role in developing students’ understanding and appreciation for agriculture,” McKenna Bush, TFB Youth Outreach coordinator, said. “By supporting the next generation of agricultural science teachers, TFB is supporting the future of agriculture.”
While student teaching, college seniors often are unable to have a job and are not always placed within close proximity to their university or home. Some student teachers may have to travel long distances, and the scholarship helps alleviate the financial stress they might face.
“TFB understands the importance of teaching young students about agriculture and preparing the next generation of teachers to take on the role of an agricultural science teacher,” Bush said. “It’s a natural fit for TFB to provide support to individuals who wish to seek this profession as their career.”
There is a high demand for agricultural science teachers, and TFB is helping students prepare to fill the roles not only of agricultural science teachers but also community leaders.
The application is available online through the MyTFB membership portal at my.texasfarmbureau.org.
College seniors who are student teaching in spring 2023 are encouraged to apply.
Applications must be submitted before midnight Nov. 1.
The application includes a written essay, several short answer questions and a recommendation form from a college or university supervisor.
The student must be part of a TFB member-family to qualify, and that membership must be maintained for the duration of the scholarship.
The student teaching scholarship winners will be announced in mid-December.
More information is available at texasfarmbureau.org/scholarships.