Nacogdoches teacher recognized by Texas Farm Bureau
(ARLINGTON, Texas)—A passion for connecting the classroom to agriculture earned one Nacogdoches County teacher statewide recognition.
Dr. Michaelle Coker is Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) 2025 Agriculture in the Classroom Outstanding Teacher Award winner. Coker was recognized during TFB’s 92nd annual meeting Dec. 6 in Arlington.
Coker teaches high school science at Central Heights High School in Nacogdoches.
She uses her agricultural background to bring lessons to life, helping her students discover how science connects to the food, fiber and fuel they depend on.
Coker works closely with Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau to strengthen local agricultural education efforts. She also shares her expertise and resources with other educators through presentations at TFB’s Summer Ag Institute and the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference.
“Michaelle is a great example of how integrating agriculture in the classroom can help shape the next generation’s understanding of what farmers and ranchers do,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “Through creative, hands-on lessons and classroom activities, Michaella sparks an interest and passion for agriculture in her students. We’re proud to recognize her agricultural education efforts in the classroom.”
She was nominated for the award by Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau.
“Dr. Coker has been an outstanding educator in Nacogdoches County for many years, demonstrating exceptional commitment to agricultural education, student success and community development,” Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau President Bill Stanaland said in the nomination letter. “She has worked closely with our board to promote Farm Bureau efforts and agricultural education. We believe Michaelle is very deserving of this award.”
Coker earned a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University, a master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and her doctorate from both Texas A&M University and Texas Tech University. She has been teaching for 15 years, with the past three years at Central Heights High School.
In recognition of her accomplishment, Coker will receive a $1,500 cash award, as well as an expense-paid trip to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference next summer. Nacogdoches County Farm Bureau also will receive a $400 cash award for this nomination.
In addition, Coker will be nominated for the National Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture award.
92nd Annual Meeting
For more information on TFB and other recognitions highlighted during the annual meeting, visit texasfarmbureau.org/annualmeeting.