Golden Owl Spotlight: Matt Schroeder

Defining Moment

Our chapter planned, fundraised, and opened an Agricultural Learning Center that holds animals year-round. Watching students take the lead from the ground up—and then seeing the payoff with town students showing livestock at the fair for the first time—has been unforgettable.

Guiding Values

Every student needs an adult willing to push them to reach their full potential—teacher, coach, parent, or mentor. Many are content to do just enough to get by; I aim to inspire them to be better than they thought they could be. It’s enjoyable and often challenging—and worth it.

Advice to Current & Future Ag Educators

There’s always an endless amount of work to do. Find what you’re passionate about and make it work for your students. It’s better to have a few areas where you and your chapter excel than to stretch yourself too thin.

On Being a Golden Owl Finalist

Teaching is tough—there’s always a student testing us, a parent who’s upset, or a kerfuffle at fair. The Golden Owl program lets educators receive positive messages from parents, students, and peers that affirm we’re making a difference. That encouragement is both inspiring and necessary.