Taylor County FFA alumni advocate for agricultural teacher compensation amid funding cuts

The Taylor County School Board meeting on July 1, 2025, focused on the future of agricultural education in the district, particularly concerning funding for agricultural teachers. During the meeting, Cameron Gregory, president of the Taylor County FFA alumni and supporters, expressed concerns about the administration's decision to reduce supplemental pay for agricultural teachers, which is crucial for their extended duties beyond the regular school year.

Gregory highlighted the importance of agricultural education, noting that it is not merely an extracurricular activity but an integral part of the curriculum that prepares students for careers in agriculture and related fields. He emphasized that the reduction of supplemental pay could hinder the ability to attract and retain qualified teachers, especially given the nationwide shortage of agricultural educators.

The board discussed the financial constraints impacting the Perkins funding, which supports career and technical education programs. It was noted that the agricultural program would see a gradual reduction in supplemental days from 20 to 10 in the upcoming year, which raised concerns about the program's sustainability and the potential impact on student opportunities.

Board members acknowledged the significance of the agricultural program and expressed a commitment to finding solutions to maintain its funding. They discussed the possibility of seeking additional appropriations or alternative funding sources to support the program and its teachers.

The meeting underscored the board's dedication to agricultural education and the need for continued support to ensure that students receive quality instruction and opportunities in this vital field. The discussions will likely lead to further exploration of funding options to sustain the agricultural program in Taylor County.