Events Hosted by the Haupert Institute

A. G-W Goodheart-Willcox Publisher - Allen McCaskill 

This session will delve into 8 popular G-W Ag textbooks (Prin of Agriculture, Ag Mechanics, Animal Science, Horticulture Today, Natural Resources, Landscape, Food Science and Floral Design), providing practical tips and techniques to maximize student engagement and understanding. Discover effective strategies for incorporating real-world applications, fostering critical thinking, and addressing diverse learning styles. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting, this session will equip you with in-person and online tools to create dynamic and impactful learning experiences. Join Allen McCaskill, your local G-W Rep, for a comprehensive session exploring innovative teaching strategies to enhance your Ag curriculum.

B. Session Title: Make Your Life Easier! Cutting edge – Lindi Kocher

Session Description: Indiana teachers will learn strategies for balancing multiple course preps, reducing planning time, and creating simple substitute plans. Discover engaging classroom activities, organize course outlines, assign materials, and build effective assessments. Participants will experience sample activities and gain practical ideas for managing a busy schedule. Plus, learn how to access Indiana curriculum!!!

C. EDP Renewables  - Elizabeth Jones

Session Description: Indiana educators will explore engaging ways to introduce students to high-demand careers in renewable energy, with a focus on wind and solar power industries. This session will provide practical strategies for designing and delivering hands-on lessons that build student understanding of sustainable energy concepts while connecting classroom learning to real-world career pathways. Participants will learn how to structure interactive activities, guide students through basic wind and solar energy principles, and facilitate meaningful discussions about the future of energy and workforce opportunities. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use lesson ideas, resources for classroom implementation, and strategies to inspire student interest in renewable energy careers.

D. 2025 -2026 Mentee Meeting – Duane Huge

Session Description: This session is designed exclusively for mentees for the 2025–2026 school year. Participants will reflect on and share their experiences from the year, highlighting successes, challenges, and key takeaways from their mentorship journey. This session will provide an opportunity for collaboration, discussion, and continued professional growth while identifying strategies and resources to support future success in the classroom and beyond.

A. Past President Reception   

Session Description: This session is designed exclusively for past presidents of the Indiana Association of Agricultural Educators (IAAE) and is offered by invitation only. Participants will engage in meaningful dialogue reflecting on their leadership experiences, discussing current trends in agricultural education, and providing insight to support the continued growth of the profession. This session will foster collaboration among experienced leaders while identifying ways to mentor and guide the next generation of agricultural educators.

B. Proficiency -  Duane Huge

Session Description - Indiana educators will engage in a hands-on exploration of FFA proficiency awards, focusing on how to develop high-quality applications that stand out at the state level and beyond. This session will guide participants step-by-step through complete examples of both Placement and Entrepreneurship proficiencies, highlighting best practices as well as common mistakes to avoid. Attendees will gain practical insights into strengthening student applications, improving record accuracy, and effectively showcasing student experiences to maximize success in the proficiency award process.

C. CDE/ LDE Logistics – Zoeanne Chernowsky

Session Description: Indiana educators will gain practical strategies for organizing and managing Leadership Development Events (LDE) and Career Development Events (CDE). This session will focus on effective approaches to recruiting and retaining student participants, structuring efficient and purposeful practices, and coordinating multiple events simultaneously. Participants will learn proven methods to streamline logistics, maximize student engagement, and build sustainable, high-quality LDE and CDE programs that support student success at all levels of competition.

D. National Chapter Award – Ben Leu and Ron Knoll

Session Descriptions - Indiana educators will gain a comprehensive understanding of the National FFA Chapter Award Program and how to successfully guide their chapters through the application process. This session will outline key components of a strong application, including planning, documentation, and alignment with program standards. Participants will learn strategies to organize chapter activities, effectively track and report impact, and position their program for success at the state and national levels.

A. Classroom to Contest – Agriscience Fair – Amanda Line and Cameron Frazier

Session Description: Indiana educators will explore the techniques and strategies utilized by successful advisors to guide students in developing high-quality projects for the Agriscience Fair. This session will provide practical approaches for teaching the scientific method, designing sound research projects, and supporting students through data collection, analysis, and presentation. Participants will gain insight into the progression from introducing basic research concepts in the classroom to mentoring students toward success at the state and National level.

B. Classroom to Contest – Soils – Jim Wildermuth

Session Description: Indiana educators will explore the techniques and strategies utilized by award-winning teachers to develop successful soils judging programs. This session will provide practical approaches to support student growth, enhance classroom instruction, and build the skills necessary for students to excel in soils judging competitions. Participants will gain insight into the progression from foundational classroom instruction to achieving success at the state level.. 

C. Classroom to Contest – Parliamentary Procedure – Travis Scherer

Session Description: Indiana educators will explore the techniques and strategies utilized by successful advisors to develop high-performing Chapter Meeting Leadership Development Event (LDE) teams. This session will provide practical approaches for teaching effective meeting management, fostering student confidence, and building the communication and teamwork skills necessary for success in these events. Participants will gain insight into the progression from foundational classroom instruction in parliamentary law to developing competitive teams capable of excelling at the state level.

D. Classroom to Contest – Livestock Skill a thon

Session Description: Indiana educators will explore the techniques and strategies utilized by successful advisors to develop competitive Livestock Skillathon Career Development Event (CDE) teams. This session will provide practical approaches for integrating animal science concepts, hands-on skill development, and critical thinking into classroom instruction. Participants will gain insight into preparing students for the diverse components of the Skillathon, including identification, evaluation, and industry-based scenarios, while building the knowledge and confidence necessary to excel at the state level.