Surprise Valley Joint Unified School District’s Agricultural program is being named the National Outstanding Middle/Secondary Agricultural Education Program Award. In June Mrs. Schritfield attended the California Agricultural Teachers Association (CATA) conference in San Luis Obispo, CA. During the conference Maigen was awarded the Outstanding Single Person Department and also was chosen as the Overall State Winner.
Maigen Scritchfield joined the Surprise Valley team in 2015, and is the only ag teacher for our Surprise Valley program. She provides students with hands-on practical education that enriches their academic experience and prepares them for their future careers.The agricultural program at SVHS plays a vital role in the community, with over 95% of students in grades 8-12 actively participating. Our school’s facilities are tailored to provide a comprehensive agricultural education, featuring a classroom with a computer lab, a three-part shop for various agricultural skills, and a range of specialized equipment for woodworking and welding. The program has a greenhouse, a chicken coop, and in the near future the construction of a 30 ft x 70 ft hoop house to expand the on-campus food production, ensuring students have hands-on experiences.
Along with the in classroom experiences, Mrs. Scritchfield has students participate in Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities, leadership conferences and competing in various contests, such as livestock judging, farm power, welding, and many different speaking contests. The program’s impact on the community is further demonstrated through its emphasis on community service, where students contribute to many local events and projects.
Despite the challenges posed by declining enrollment due to the school's remote location, Maigen has not only been willing to teach science classes, but she meets the A-G requirements to create rigorous science classes that will prepare our students to meet any university standards. Her partnerships with organizations like the Bureau of Land Management, along with her success in securing agricultural incentive grants, have further enhanced the program's facilities and activities. Maigen stated, "The number one reason I became an agricultural teacher is that I am someone who seeks improvement and loves to learn. Professional development, leadership opportunities, and activities that push me out of my comfort zone are crucial to my success as an agricultural educator."
I am so proud of Maigen and the work that she does. Our students are her pride and joy, and she works endless hours to provide opportunities for these students. Not only is she involved in the agriculture program, but she is also very involved in all the school and district programs. Though I was sworn to secrecy when she found out about the state award, we are now excited to announce that she has also received the prestigious national award. Congratulations to the Surprise Valley Agricultural Program and Mrs. Scritchfield.