Practitioner Perspectives on the Current Status of Agriculture Education in the United States

For modern nations, a healthy agricultural sector provides the necessary foundation for the economic growth and social progress that enhance their citizens’ quality of life. Historically, agriculture education has been a dynamic and growing facet of career and technical education in the United States. Currently, however, public policy and support for agriculture education is negatively impacted by a national attitude that devalues agriculture education and perceives it as less desirable than a four-year college degree. This paper considers the history, scope, and current status of agriculture education in the context of increasing worldwide demand for agricultural products and rapidly changing technology.