Exploring Principals' Perceptions of Supervised Agricultural Experience

Abstract

This study explored the perceptions of principals at high schools with agricultural education programs in regard to Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). There is evidence that suggests that high school principals' attitudes may both directly and indirectly affect factors that influence school climate and student achievement. In this study, principals were found to value SAE. No differences were found in the perceptions of those with prior experience in Agricultural Education/Supervised Agricultural Experiences or those who lead urban/rural schools. This is a promising finding since many of today's principals possess less experience with agricultural education and rural communities. The majority of principals in this study did not recognize their teachers for conducting SAEs. Teacher recognition for SAE participation was most likely given in the form of face-to-face conversation and not in the direct formal evaluation processes. A strong relationship was found to exist between the value principals possess of Career and Technical Education (CTE) and their value of SAEs. National and state staff should consider developing more award programs where principals and teachers can be recognized for SAE participation. In-service should be targeted at principals who do not value Career and Technical Education in general.