Mary Klecker, agricultural science teacher at East HS for 29 years, received an Honorary Recognition Award in October from the University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.

Honorary Recognition is the highest honor bestowed by the College. It recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions toward the development of agriculture, protection of natural resources and improvement of rural living.

As the agriculture science instructor at East, Klecker plans curriculum, oversees a greenhouse and five-acre laboratory plot, writes grants, arranges field trips and other hands-on learning opportunities, and advises the district's year-round FFA program.

Klecker has inspired her students to pursue advanced degrees in everything from genetics to botany to veterinary science. She has guided a generation of young people to careers in agriculture, the life sciences and natural resources.

"Mary Klecker is a veteran teacher recognized by colleagues, students and parents for her expertise and care for students," said East Principal Alan Harris. "Her work with FFA is recognized statewide. In addition to her curricular responsibilities, Mary coordinates countless volunteer, fund-raising and community food drives with her students."

A farmer herself, Klecker owns Out West Farm, Inc., near Cambridge, a 231-acre bison operation that uses low-input, sustainable practices. She also holds numerous professional affiliations and positions.

An alumna of UW-Madison, Klecker has presented at state and national seminars on women in agriculture, teaching non-traditional students, biotechnoloy, and sustainable agriculture.

"Mary is one of the first women in the nation to teach agriculture and is a trailblazer in a male-dominated profession," says Dan Kvalheim, advisor for the DeForest FFA. "She has earned the respect of everyone who works with her and has raised the bar in agricultural education."

Klecker talks to students about samples found on the "scavenger hunt" list that was a culminating event for the season at the 5-acre urban agriculture plot behind Kennedy Elementary.