FAQs – The National Council for Agricultural Education

Q: How do you transition students from Foundational to Immersion experiences?

Once a student has selected a career path in which they are interested, he or she can begin exploring which type of Immersion SAE best provides the opportunity for enhanced engagement in that field. This provides students the opportunity to validate that the chosen career area aligns with their interests and abilities. The individual learning guides for Immersion SAEs walk the student through the process of setting up an Immersion SAE aligned to their career. Starting an Immersion SAE before the Foundational work of career exploration occurs could lead a student into a “project” that may not provide the career preparation that is essential for students to graduate with a well-defined career path.

Q: Is the Foundational SAE only for those students who do not have an Immersion SAE?

No, the Foundational SAE is not a replacement for students without an Immersion SAE. Foundational SAE is a process-focused component that guides students through five critical career development areas to give direction in the selection and continuation of an Immersion SAE. The Foundational SAE component is active throughout a student’s time within the Agricultural Education program. The student’s activities in a Foundational SAE build on previous work as they progress through their Agricultural Education courses. Once a student starts an Immersion SAE aligned to their career choice, the Foundational SAE continues alongside the Immersion experience to provide validation and preparation for their career path after graduation.

Q: How can we communicate the importance of SAE for All to community members and school leaders?

To find success in today’s economy, it is important for students to graduate with a clear path for their career. It is equally important for schools to have resources to support this path in order to meet the individualized needs of students. The SAE for All program provides the structure and process to guide a student through career awareness, exploration, and preparation for their chosen career. The benefits of income, understanding the workplace, and creating a financial plan all add value to the student as they pursue their chosen career path.