EDUCATING AGRICULTURISTS A Farmer

by Amy Hadachek

Welcoming urban students into the agricultural education program at Wichita Southeast High School became a game changer for students and the agriculture chapter; propelling teacher and FFA advisor Joanna Farmer into the spotlight; as one of eight finalists for ‘2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year.’

After winning locally, her district nominated Farmer for state teacher of the year. Although Farmer did not win the overall state title, she feels honored that a student’s parent nominated her for the district title. Farmer already travels across Kansas; representing education to students and lawmakers.

“I am humbled by the experience and hope to gain more knowledge this school year to share with my students,” Farmer said. Starting an agricultural education program was a challenge, since her students come from an urban setting.

“I may have three kids a year who ever stepped foot on a farm (usually a grandparent’s farm in another state,)” Farmer said.

She ‘won over’ students, school administration and the Board of Education; explaining how the program would succeed in an urban setting.

“We weren’t working with kids that wanted to be farmers, and students thought - that was all we’d talk about. Our in-house budget was small. Students had big ideas; my first group was taught how to find and write grants. The first two years netted us $25,000 in new funds,” Farmer said.

Kids loved developing a community garden and helping raise chickens, and attending Career Development Events (CDEs) to learn how those worked.

“No matter how stressed she is, Mrs. Farmer always takes time to help students. She’s very passionate about what she does,” said senior Raven Kanthamit.

Wichita Southeast FFA was incorporated in 2018. The ag program started in 2016. Farmer has been there since its inception. Their program showcases plant science and animal science pathways, and recently added small engine classes to gauge interest in a third pathway. Her own high school graduation class of 35 students is in stark comparison to the 600 students in a grade at Wichita Southeast. Farmer is especially proud of the program’s diversity.

“We’ve grown from a few city kids to the largest FFA chapter in Kansas,” Farmer said. Her students learn that there areagriculture careers for them; as a farmer or other ag opportunities.

Growing up in FFA and 4-H in Texas, Farmer’s family raised and showed registered Southdown sheep. Her brothers and she had market pigs, steers, goats, rabbits and chickens. With a biology degree from Pittsburg State University, Farmer married and moved to Wichita for her husband’s job. Responding to a shortage of substitute teachers, she discovered her love of teaching. She later taught at an alternative school featuring hands-on projects; growing plants and starting a hay bale garden. Ultimately, the Wichita Southeast job became available. Farmer reflected...“I am super proud of the effort my students give and their willingness to try something new.”