For Harley Painter, agriculture isn’t just a subject—it’s a calling. As an ag teacher and FFA advisor at Central Community High School, Harley is redefining how students view agriculture while building a program that’s as rooted in tradition as it is forward-thinking.

Now in her sixth year at Central, Harley’s journey to the school was unexpected. Hailing from small town Illinois, she initially sought a teaching role for practical reasons, drawn to the district’s competitive salary and supportive administration. But what she discovered was a school and community ready to embrace her vision for an inclusive, impactful agriculture program.

When Harley arrived at Central, the ag program consisted of a single teacher and about 88 students. Today, it has doubled in size, with over 165 students enrolled and the addition of a second ag teacher, Jeff Jacobs. Together, Harley and Jeff offer a wide array of courses, including mechanics, plant and soil science, and veterinary science, ensuring that every student finds something to ignite their curiosity.

One of the program’s crown jewels is its new greenhouse, made possible by a $45,000 donation from the local Farm Bureau. “The greenhouse was on my wish list from the start,” Harley says. “Now, it’s a reality, and it’s providing hands-on learning opportunities for students across the school.”

Harley’s role goes far beyond teaching. As FFA advisor, she mentors students in the nation’s largest student-led organization, which focuses on leadership, personal growth, and career success in agriculture. Under her guidance, Central has produced 10 state FFA degree recipients and three American degree earners, reflecting the program’s strength and her students’ dedication.

“FFA is about more than farming,” Harley explains. “It’s about leadership, community service, and building skills that apply to any career. Our students learn to be better speakers, debaters, and problem-solvers.”

This focus on skill-building extends to competitions, where students receive feedback from industry experts. Whether excelling in public speaking or showcasing project work through supervised agricultural experiences, Central’s FFA members are consistently setting a high bar.

Harley credits much of the program’s success to the supportive culture at Central, and the greater Breese community. From administrators to local organizations, the community’s investment in its students is unwavering. “Our Farm Bureau, parents, and alumni are incredibly generous,” Harley says. “Whether it’s funding a greenhouse or providing scholarships for FFA jackets, they’re always willing to help.”

Harley’s passion for agriculture stems from her own upbringing on a hobby farm, where she gained hands-on experience with livestock and crops. She brings that same enthusiasm to her classroom, where students learn not only the science behind agriculture but also its practical applications.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing students connect their work to real-world impact,” Harley says. “Agriculture is the backbone of everything we do—it feeds us, clothes us, and fuels us. Helping students understand that is incredibly powerful.”

For Harley, the true reward of teaching lies in watching her students transform. “High school is such a pivotal time,” she says. “I see students come in as freshmen, unsure of themselves, and leave as confident leaders. It’s amazing to be part of that journey.”

Harley’s students, many of whom she teaches for all four years, reflect her dedication. Whether they’re waking up at 3 a.m. to milk cows before school or competing at the national FFA convention, their commitment to growth mirrors her own.

“Seeing students find their purpose and their people through agriculture is second to none,” Harley says. “It’s not unlike growing a crop—you plant the seeds, nurture them, and watch them flourish.”

As Harley looks to the future, she’s focused on continuing to grow the program while staying true to its roots. With plans to expand course offerings and deepen community partnerships, she’s laying the groundwork for even greater success.

“Agriculture is about more than tradition—it’s about innovation and opportunity,” Harley says. “At Central, we’re showing students that they can be part of something bigger, whether they’re farming, conducting research, or leading in their communities.”

For Harley Painter, teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to cultivate the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and stewards of the land. And at Central High, her impact is as enduring as the fields that surround it.