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This month’s Ag Hero is Karl Dawn Hobbs Stover, who is a 12-year-agricultural education instructor, FFA advisor, and now career pathways instructor at Ellsworth Junior and Senior High School (EJSHS). It's fitting to honor Karl Dawn on National Teach Ag Day, as there is no better time to thank her for her tireless commitment to agricultural education, FFA, and shaping the next generation of leaders who will feed, fuel, and clothe the world.
Karl Dawn’s approach to agricultural education is tailored to the individual needs of her students. She and her EJSHS teaching partner, Kara Hays, focus on leading their students through three education components: information collection, laboratory experiments, and real-life application. They then prepare their students in the classroom with background information and guide them through labs in the classroom, greenhouse, and shop. Once students have found their area of interest and refined their skills, Karl Dawn supports project development through students’ supervised agricultural experiences like animal care, plant propagation, or job shadowing. Karl Dawn also works with local businesses and community members to strengthen the EJSHS career pathways programming.
The flourishing Ellsworth FFA Chapter is a testament to Karl Dawn’s leadership and expertise. Under her guidance, Ellsworth FFA has earned the prestigious Kansas FFA Triple Crown award at Kansas FFA Convention for three consecutive years. The chapter was recognized for its career success, leadership, citizenship, agricultural advocacy, and chapter recruitment programming, including through Ellsworth's unique program – Ag Buddies. Through Ag Buddies, Ellsworth FFA members partner with kindergarten and first grade classes to teach agricultural literacy and a great understanding of the food that we eat. Ellsworth FFA Chapter’s success is a testament to Karl Dawn’s dedication to her students.
Karl Dawn and her husband Thomas live on their family farm near Beloit. Karl Dawn, thank you for all you do. Your students, EJSHS, Kansas FFA are fortunate to have you.
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