Kindra Callahan, agriscience educator at Kewanee High School, recently attended a Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education professional development institute to teach the Principles of Agricultural Science – Animal CASE curriculum.

CASE is an instructional system that is changing the culture of agriculture programs in the United States through teacher professional development; inquiry-based, student-focused lessons; assessment and certification.

Teachers use the curriculum to elevate student experiences in the agriculture classroom and prepare students for success in college and careers emphasizing science, technology, engineering, and math
(STEM). CASE is an initiative of The National Council for Agricultural Education.

During the CASE Institute, Callahan spent 72 hours working through nearly every lesson in the year-long curriculum and learning how to deliver lessons in an inquiry-based way that will shift focus in the classroom from teacher-led to student-directed learning. Callahan now holds CASE certifications in Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR); Principles of Agricultural Science – Animal (ASA); Agricultural Power and Technology (APT) and Agricultural Business Management (ABF).

“Principles of Agricultural Science—Animal is a course engaging students in hands-on laboratories and activities to explore the world of animal agriculture. I cannot wait to see students gain experience with animals and learn more about not only where our food comes from but how we can also improve the lives of our companion animals,” said Callahan.