2030 Minnesota Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) Education Blueprint
The 2030 Minnesota AFNR Education Blueprint is a statewide strategic plan for promoting, expanding and improving AFNR education across the state and was developed through the combined input and efforts of approximately 200 stakeholders. The Blueprint specifically focuses on four sectors of AFNR education:
- School-Based AFNR Education
- Agriculture Teacher Preparation
- Post-Secondary AFNR Education
- Farm Business Management (FBM)
Each sector identifies the top four recommended strategies for achieving overarching goals of AFNR education:
- Increasing STUDENT access, awareness, and participation
- Improving PROGRAMMING content, meeting facilities and equipment needs, and providing the best methods of instruction to meet the needs of the AFNR industry
- Recruiting, retaining, and supporting highly qualified INSTRUCTORS
Final strategies found in the Blueprint are specific to each AFNR educational sector, however, common themes were identified across all sectors.
To increase STUDENT access, awareness, and participation in the AFNR educational sectors, strategies focused on improving student engagement, broadening opportunities for applied learning, and creating pathways for successful futures. Suggestions ranged from creating engaging marketing and communication resources for recruitment to strengthening partnerships and building cross-sector collaborations. This would create a more seamless transition for students between sectors and improve program offerings. Students should feel connected and supported, therefore strategies were recommended for offering peer cohorts, and networking and mentoring opportunities with alumni and industry professionals. Finally, financial support will continue to be important to ensure that economic barriers do not prevent students from pursuing educational programming.
To support PROGRAMMING success, the strategies identified revolved around ensuring educational programs align with industry standards, enhancing student learning, and providing the resources necessary for success. Curriculum should be developed to align with educational and industry standards, guided by statewide advisory committees. Also, advisories and other facilitated discussions, along with advocacy efforts, should be utilized to support equipment and facility upgrades. Each sector also needs to continue to explore alternative instruction models, integrate technology when appropriate, and build partnerships to offer students opportunities to gain leadership, career readiness and technical skills.
Strategies related to retaining and supporting highly qualified INSTRUCTORS were centered around professional development, mentorship, financial incentives, and creating a supportive and collaborative environment. Continuing and strengthening current mentorship programs for early-career instructors is important, as well as providing ongoing professional development and teacher cohort opportunities. Hiring regional and professional development coordinators was encouraged as well as financial incentives for serving as mentors and pursuing continuing education. Recruitment is also key, and strategies were developed around connecting with non-traditional and underrepresented populations in the AFNR teaching field, utilizing adjunct instructors, and reviewing and supporting instructors through the credentialing process.
Learn more about the goals and strategies laid out in 2030 Minnesota Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) Education Blueprint.