Gary Thome, farm business management instructor at Riverland Community College attended 58^th annual convention of the National association of Agricultural  Educators (NAAE) in late November.

More than 400 agricultural education professionals from all states, including teachers, teacher educators and state staff, gathered for a national meeting that provided agricultural educators with professional development opportunities to strengthen local educational programs. Conference attendees also participated in professional development workshops on current issues related to improving teaching techniques and developing trends in agriculture.

The NAAE mission is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service. NAAE has about 8,000 members nationwide.

The Riverland Farm Business Management program is designed to help organize a farmer’s resources to assist in meeting family and financial goals. Courses explore various topics including: economic principles, farm practices, agricultural science, new developments in the field and decision making skills. Instructors primarily work with clients/students one on one.