FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces Minnesota Agriculture Education Instructor as
National Award Winner
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Eric Sawatzke, Agriculture Education Instructor, at West Central Area Schools in Barrett, MN, as the 2026 ACTE Carl Perkins Community Service Award – National Winner. This award recognizes individuals who have used CTE to make a significant impact on their community and demonstrate leadership in programs and activities that promote student involvement in community service.
Eric Sawatzke has transformed West Central Area Schools’ agricultural education program into a model of career readiness and community engagement in rural Minnesota. As an agricultural education instructor serving 360 students in grades 7–12, Sawatzke is dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers while fostering strong connections with the communities they call home.
Situated in a region shaped by agriculture, WCA’s program under Eric’s guidance emphasizes hands-on learning, practical experience, and service to the community. He creates a classroom environment that meets the needs of diverse learners, ensuring students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of food, fiber, and fuel production, and the important role each individual plays in supporting local communities.
Eric’s innovative approach and focus on partnerships have led to the creation of two major facilities: a greenhouse valued at over $350,000 and a $371,000 mobile meat processing trailer. Supported by more than 60 local and regional partners, these projects provide students with advanced training opportunities while also increasing the supply of fresh food donated to local food shelves.
Through strategic grant writing and community engagement, Sawatzke has expanded agricultural education throughout the district, installing 11 hydroponic towers in classrooms ranging from elementary to high school, including biology labs, Family and Consumer Sciences, and even English classrooms.
Beyond his district, Eric has influenced agricultural education statewide. He has collaborated with Minnesota legislators to establish a Meat Processing Education grant, which has already provided $550,000 in equipment to schools. His work with the Department of Agriculture’s Meat Inspection Division helps schools safely launch meat processing programs, and he recently played a pivotal role in funding a statewide meat processing curriculum, which will be available to all agricultural educators in Minnesota.
Through his dedication to agriculture, student success, and community service, Eric Sawatzke continues to inspire both students and fellow educators. His work not only equips students for the workforce but also instills a strong sense of civic responsibility and pride in their rural heritage.
Sawatzke was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.
###
About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities
