The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in New Mexico Agricultural Education
Keywords:
Agriculture, education, FFA, Diversity and InclusionAbstract
In 2021, the National FFA Organization established and distributed value statements to strengthen
diversity and inclusion policies in school-based agricultural education (SBAE) programs. Since these
statements replace a previous effort, more research is needed on how they impact agricultural education.
Comparatively, the demographics of New Mexico's agricultural education students do not reflect racial
minority-majority status. Research on sex/gender, sexuality, and special needs/exceptions is limited in
New Mexico. Although there is previous research on diversity and inclusion in agricultural education,
updated studies are needed to gauge population demographic information. We studied how agricultural
educators and students apply the National FFA Value Statements to agricultural education programs. We
designed a questionnaire targeted toward agricultural educators to score statements on diversity and
inclusion and National FFA Value Statements. Based on agreement levels, agricultural instructors
understand and practice diversity and inclusion more than students. However, they report limited
sexuality and gender awareness. We developed solutions and suggestions for incorporating diversity and
inclusion in New Mexico agricultural education, emphasizing additional professional development
opportunities.
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