CTE Post-Secondary Educator of the Year

Justin Brereton is a Professor of Agriscience at Yavapai College. Professor Brereton has done a stellar job in creating many enhancements where he specializes in Horticulture and Viticulture classes.  He has figured out ways to develop hybrid instruction which allows students greater flexibility in taking classes, while still be able to maintain jobs which keep them afloat. He implemented a flex schedule for students to complete their lab work in the greenhouse, allowing them to attend labs around their work schedules.

He has been engaged in research projects with students which include testing fruit varietals for cold weather tolerance in conjunction with the University of Arizona, as well as innovative greenhouse hydroponic fruit and vegetable production where the products are on sold contracts with local restaurants. This innovative model has allowed students to learn the entire process of fruit and vegetable production from plant to table.  The produce is also sold on Saturdays at the Prescott Farmers market.  Restaurants who use YC produce advertise the college on their menus, leading to a continued stream of solid enrollment.

His innovative approach of teaching production with plants allows students to enter the industry and progress as growers for the region

Justin has developed teacher education programs such as the horticulture program as a stand-alone certificate embedded into the Agriculture Degree.  A student can opt for the entire degree or the certificate depending on their goals.  His program completion rates are over 80% which is high at the college level. 

Justin has contributed to many local community organizations including providing expertise to the Farmers Market Board, and Cooperative Extension Agency to provide workshops, hosting several trainings for various community-based groups including the Antelope garden club, conducting hands on workshops for elementary students, serving on the Agriculture Advisory Board for Chino Valley High School, and working with the Town of Chino Valley on the annual First Territorial Days celebration.  Justin has served as the dual enrollment coordinator for agriculture programs conducted at 4 local high schools, where he provides curriculum and assistance to secondary agriculture teachers for secondary students to receive college credit.