Animal Sciences and Agricultural Education
Sonia Perez
Sonia Perez
Student Teacher
Area of Emphasis: Plant Science
Spring 2026 Final Student Teaching Placement: Mira Monte High School
Sonia Perez grew up in Los Banos, CA, exposed to agriculture throughout her life. Agriculture education gave her a career path. Her Agriculture teachers introduced her to career opportunities and leadership experiences that changed her life. They opened doors she didn't know existed, and she wants to do the same for her students. Their impact inspired her to become an Agriculture teacher and help students discover their potential in agriculture.
Sonia earned her Associate of Arts degree in General Agriculture Science at Merced Community College, then transferred to Fresno State for her Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education. This path helped her build a strong foundation in agriculture before focusing on education. Her hands-on courses in plant science showed her how important it is when students connect classroom learning to real world applications, something she brings into her own teaching.
Sonia completed her Initial student teaching phase at Shafter High School and will finish her Final phase at Mira Monte High School. In phase one, she taught Agriculture and Natural Resources (AFNR) and Biotechnology. Both courses helped her learn classroom management and how to set up labs for hands-on activities. During the Biotechnology course, she faced some challenges with lab results that didn't go as planned. These experiences taught her to be flexible and think on the spot. With more experience, she'll be better at anticipating issues and adjusting lessons. These were great ways for her to reflect and continue improvement as an educator.
FFA has been a huge part of Sonia's teaching and career growth. Through FFA, students discover opportunities that can shape their future careers. Watching students grow through leadership, competitions, and hands-on experiences shows her why agricultural education matters. She co-supervised the Opening and Closing Ceremony teams at her previous school. Working with these students on public speaking, teamwork, and dedication showed her how FFA builds confidence and professionalism that goes beyond the classroom.
Sonia's specialty is Plant Science. During student teaching, she learned how to connect with students and manage her classroom. This experience helped her figure out how she wants to set up her own classroom. She's also improved at changing lessons on the spot and creating fun, hands-on activities.
After finishing student teaching, Sonia plans to teach Agricultural Education in Kern County. Her Agriculture teacher gave her lifetime opportunities, and she wants to do the same for her students. She's eager to help them however she can and create a supportive environment like the one that changed her life. She'll prioritize building relationships, staying current with agriculture trends, and making sure every student knows what opportunities are available. She wants to be the teacher who helps students see paths they didn't know existed. Building a strong FFA program and hands-on learning will be key to her approach in Kern County's Agricultural community.
Sonia enjoys spending time with family and friends and loves hiking. These activities help her recharge and stay connected to the outdoors, which connects to her passion for agriculture. She has some connection to agriculture through family—her in-laws work in the fields and water well industry in Kern County. This connection gives her appreciation for the hard work that goes into feeding our communities.