SURPRISING STUFF
One local teacher has made a big difference in his community.
For 30 years, David Kruse has taught thousands of students about agriculture at Elkhorn Area High School. He loves sharing his passion for agriculture and is always looking for ways to pass this on to his students. Last school year over spring break he accompanied a group of students on a food tour of Italy which was an experience none of them will ever forget. That’s just one example of him sharing his passion with his students. He truly puts his students first. Currently this school year his students are learning how to identify trees using markers such as bark or leaves. With that comes a lot of outside classroom time by taking advantage of nearby wetlands, prairie, and school forests.
It wasn’t until 2023 that Kruse had a student that made him rethink his teaching methods and how to make them all-inclusive. Giselle Venegas is a 15-year-old sophomore who dreams of working with children in the future and has also been in a wheelchair since she was six. Last year adaptations were made so she could harvest pumpkins in the field as she wanted to experience agriculture class to its fullest. She was eager to learn and perform the experiments alongside the other students. That’s when Kruse began thinking and brainstorming ways to make more things possible for students in wheelchairs.
After multiple meetings, the Elkhorn School District committed 7,000 dollars in existing funds to help purchase an all-terrain wheelchair for those in need. But the chair cost $20,000, leaving Kruse and his team to figure out the remaining costs. That’s when members of Elkhorn’s FFA chapter and its alumni stepped in to help. The organization emphasizes ag education and leadership for all, and it’s that mission that confirms those involved were doing the right thing. After a lot of hard work, the powerchair is finally in Elkhorn’s hands. The chair can either be manually operated by the rider using a simple joystick and control pad on the arm handle or by someone who is walking next to it. Everything is adjustable, from the seat to the speed to the height.
For Venegas’ family, knowing she has a strong community around her is key. To have a community come together to support Venegas’ education is very special. In the future, Kruse is hoping the school will be able to expand its community partnerships and programs to make the chair available to whoever might need it, noting this is just a first step in their push for equal opportunities.
One great teacher, student body, and support from the community can make a big difference.
