North High School (NHS) Ag Teacher, Natalie Ryan, is one of only six nationwide named Outstanding Young Member by the National Association of Agriculture Educators (NAAE). The prestigious award was presented at the NAAE Convention in November.
“Natalie is a dedicated individual in all aspects of her job. She has been instrumental in turning North High agriculture students and agriculture program into a model program that develops strong leaders and responsible individuals who make a difference in the lives of others.” - Julie Beechinor, Ag Instructor, Frontier High School
According to NAAE, Ryan was part of the driving force behind the drastically upgraded department laboratory and classroom facilities providing courses in agriculture and veterinary sciences, agriculture biology, communications, floral design, agricultural government and economics for more than 350 students each year.
Ryan has been teaching at NHS for five years and attributes her student’s success to a positive learning environment, hands-on lab experiences, and a focus on community service.
The NHS FFA Chapter hosts annual petting zoos and carnivals for local schools, coordinates various fundraisers, and volunteers for many non-profit organizations.