Nebraska Career and Technical Education Conference 2026

Join the Center for Rural Affairs and Nebraska Department of Education Farm to School teams for a practical session on incorporating hydroponics into CTE and agriculture programs. Participants will explore growing media options, basic pest management, and key greenhouse considerations such as space, structure, and climate challenges. This session focuses on what educators need to know before starting or expanding hydroponics instruction in schools, with additional ideas for strengthening Farm to School activities. A Q&A with hydroponic experts will allow time to ask questions, troubleshoot challenges, and gain practical insights.

Looking to refresh your Family and Consumer Sciences curriculum with engaging, real-world connections? This interactive session introduces educators to a ready-to-use toolkit featuring more than 70 hands-on lessons from the National Agriculture in the Classroom Curriculum Matrix. Participants will explore standards-aligned activities connected to key FCS topics such as nutrition, food systems, sustainability, financial literacy, and career exploration. Designed to be flexible and classroom-friendly, these resources help students connect agriculture to everyday life. Educators will leave with practical strategies, engaging activity ideas, and digital tools ready for immediate classroom use.

This interactive session highlights classroom-ready Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) resources designed for middle and high school agriculture educators. Participants will explore programs such as Connecting Chapters, Chief Careers, Discover Nebraska Agriculture magazines, and standards-aligned lesson plans, along with support from AITC Educators. Attendees will also learn how to navigate the National AITC Curriculum Matrix to quickly find lessons aligned to state and national standards. The session concludes with collaborative idea-sharing and Q&A focused on practical implementation, student engagement, and program integration.

You know the impact your CTE program has on students—but does your community and administration know it too? This interactive session shares practical strategies for promoting your program and building support. Participants will explore ways to highlight student success through social media, events, and community partnerships. Attendees will review real examples and begin developing a simple, ready-to-use promotion plan for their program.