The hunt for Iowa’s next top agriculture educator of the year is underway. The nominating period for the prestigious Golden Owl Award is now open and seeks your input.
Sponsored by the Iowa FFA Foundation, Nationwide Insurance and other partners in agriculture, the annual Golden Owl Award recognizes outstanding work in agriculture education. Students, fellow teachers, faculty and other partners are invited to submit nominations for exceptional ag educators who have made a difference in their area.
“Agriculture education is vital for Iowa schools and developing career-related skills for students,” said Matthew Eddy, Iowa FFA state advisor for the Iowa Department of Education. “It’s highly important to celebrate and recognize the ag educators who are doing quality work.”
Seven finalists for the award will be selected in early 2023. Each finalist will receive a $500 prize, a commemorative engraved plaque and the chance to be named as Iowa’s top agriculture educator. A grand prize of $3,000 and the Golden Owl trophy will be presented to the winner at the Iowa FFA Convention next April.
Last year, a record number of over 400 nominations were submitted, and Micah Weber from Rock Valley Community School District was named as the 2021-22 Golden Owl awardee. Iowans are encouraged to take part in this year’s process and submit nominations for their school’s respected ag educators.
“We want to hear from you,” Eddy said. “Let us know who is doing a great job in ag education.”
Nominations for the Golden Owl Award (link removed) will be accepted through Dec. 1.