Prairie View ag teacher a finalist for Golden Owl Award

Prairie View agriculture educator Melisa Bertz, center, receives a check from FFA State Sentinel Natalee Bray, and Beth Gaines, executive director of the Kansas FFA Foundation at the Prairie View school board meeting on Feb. 22 for being a district finalist for the Golden Owl Award, which recognizes agricultural educators for their tremendous contributions to helping the next generation of agricultural leaders. (Roger Sims / Linn County Journal)

Press release

LA CYGNE – The Kansas FFA, in partnership with Nationwide Insurance, proudly recognizes Melisa Bertz, an agricultural educator at Prairie View High School, as the East Central District finalist for the 2025 Golden Owl Award.

Bertz was selected through nominations submitted from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, recognizing her outstanding contributions to agricultural education and student development.

Bertz received an individualized plaque and a $500 check as a district finalist. She now advances to the final selection stage, where one educator will be named Kansas Ag Educator of the Year, receiving an additional $3,000 Nationwide-funded check and the prestigious Golden Owl Award trophy.

"Melisa Bertz brings energy and passion to the classroom, creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment," said Beth Gaines, Executive Director of the Kansas FFA Foundation. "Her ability to connect with students and instill valuable life skills is truly commendable."

Established by Nationwide, the Golden Owl Award honors the hard work of agricultural educators and provides additional resources to enhance their programs. This year, the award program recognizes exceptional ag educators in 13 states, including Kansas.

"As the demand for agricultural education grows, we are proud to recognize and support these incredible teachers," said Brad Liggett, President of Agribusiness at Nationwide. "Their unwavering commitment to students and agriculture is inspiring, and we are grateful for their contributions to the industry."

In addition to recognizing finalists, Nationwide is donating $5,000 to Kansas FFA to further support the professional and personal development of students, educators, and advisors.

The Kansas Ag Educator of the Year will be announced at the 97th Kansas FFA Convention at Kansas State University from May 27-30, 2025.