Idaho teacher Abigail Heikes is redefining agricultural education by bringing hands-on, interactive learning to virtual students at Idaho Technical Career Academy. Through creative methods—like shipping students seeds and materials to grow plants at home—Heikes ensures students connect with agriculture in meaningful ways. Her innovative approach extends to animal science, where students participate in real dissections remotely. As a virtual FFA advisor, Heikes is expanding opportunities, helping students gain industry certifications and fostering leadership skills in the next generation of agricultural professionals.
Related Articles
Amp Camp Gives Online Students a Chance To Connect
Nearly two dozen students from Colorado Preparatory Academy and Pikes Peak Online School participate in AMP Camp, a multi-day leadership retreat at Camp Shady Brook in the Colorado Rockies. The program, led by Jennie Marr, helps students develop leadership skills through activities like kayaking, rock climbing, and team-building exercises. AMP offers a supportive, student-centered environment, with students setting goals and planning community service projects. For many, it’s their first opportunity to meet classmates in person and strengthen their leadership and mentorship abilities.
High School Junior Finds Path in Construction
https://www.chronicle1909.com/2025/04/17/high-school-junior-finds-path-in-construction/
ITCA’s Tami Perez Receives Honorary Degree at 2025 Idaho Ffa State Convention
Tami Perez, Career-Technical Education Coordinator at Idaho Technical Career Academy, received the 2025 Honorary State FFA Degree—the Idaho FFA Association’s highest honor—for her contributions to agricultural education. Recognized at the state convention in Twin Falls, Perez was praised for her leadership, innovative teaching, and lasting impact on students and the state’s CTE programs. With a background in business education and project-based learning, Perez has helped shape ITCA’s hands-on, career-focused learning model for high school students across Idaho.