By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Passionate agricultural science teachers and FFA advisors mold the next generation and the future of agriculture. Jeff Klose became an ag teacher to do just that—make an impact and ensure students are equipped to address the challenges of a changing world.

For 21 years, Klose has taught agricultural science courses and led FFA members at Canyon High School.

He recognizes the important role teachers play in a student’s life. By teaching courses like principles of ag, livestock production and agribusiness management marketing, students can learn the ins and outs of agriculture.

“There are so many students who have never contemplated where their food or clothing comes from, and so we have a lot of misinformation out there. As an ag teacher, I try to help educate people about where their food and fiber comes from and how they can be involved in that and understand it better,” he said.

At Canyon ISD, Klose strives to expose every student to agriculture. Klose works with elementary teachers to incorporate agriculture in their classes to help grow more informed consumers and introduce students to agriculture at a young age.

“One of our most basic needs as humans is what we eat and how we shelter ourselves,” he said. “The more people who understand how to feed and clothe the world, the freer we really are.”

Agricultural science teachers help students grasp concepts of food production and consumption, food waste, climate science and other important issues the world has and will continue to face, he noted.

“I sat down and started thinking about what was it that I really wanted to do for the rest of my life and how I wanted to impact the world,” Klose said. “I decided early that ag education is where my heart was. It’s all the things I loved and enjoyed when I was younger, and I wanted to be able to give those same opportunities I had to students in the future.”

Growing up, Klose was heavily involved in agriculture. His mom was a teacher and coach, and his dad was a famer. He saw the need for more agricultural science teachers and has truly enjoyed his career.

“I’m proud to be an ag teacher. I’m really proud of all my students who are out in the world trying to make an impact. To see the impact that they’re having, to know that I had even just a tiny bit to do with that or to be involved with that, is very special,” Klose said. “I hope more students see that, and I hope more people see it as a great opportunity to really make an impact on the world because we need more ag teachers.”

Thursday, Sept. 21, is National Teach Ag Day. It is designed to encourage others to teach agriculture and recognize the important role that agricultural science teachers, like Klose, play in schools and communities across the nation.

For more information on Teach Ag Day, visit naae.org/teachag.