Elite Conference Opens Doors for Future Agricultural Educators

By Andi Anderson

Registration is now open for the Elite Conference, a special event designed for high school students interested in pursuing a career in agricultural education. The conference provides students with an opportunity to learn more about the profession and discover the many pathways available in agricultural teaching.

The need for qualified agriculture teachers remains high across Illinois and throughout the United States. To help address this growing demand, the Elite Conference offers students a chance to explore agricultural education in an engaging and supportive environment. Participants can meet students with similar interests, interact with college and university representatives, and receive guidance on educational and career opportunities in the field.

The one-day workshop will take place on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Richland Community College in Decatur, Illinois. Activities are expected to run from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Students are encouraged to attend in Official FFA Dress, or equivalent (dress shirt, dress pants or skirts).

Organizers encourage teachers to invite students who have a genuine interest in agricultural education. Due to limited space, schools are asked to bring no more than 4 participants. Additional students may be accommodated if registration capacity allows.

The conference will offer separate learning tracks for first-time attendees and students who have attended previously. Organizers have also noted, "We ask that students who have participated two times do not attend again." This approach allows more students to benefit from the experience and explore future teaching opportunities.

Along with the conference invitation, organizers have provided two documents for participating schools: a personal student invitation and a parent or guardian letter. Educators are reminded to review and customize these materials before distributing them, as they are not intended to be used without revision.

The event is offered at no cost to participants, thanks to support from NAAE, CHS through the STAR Program, and FCAE through the Illinois Ag Ed Line Item. Registration will remain open until September 8, 2026. Students interested in agricultural education are encouraged to register early and explore additional opportunities through agricultural education programs, career development events, grants, and supervised agricultural experiences.

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