Congratulations to Mr. Steve Black and 44 other men and women named to the 2024 class of the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas Hall of Fame.

Mr. Black (center) was congratulated by current Ag Teachers, Daniel Phillips (left) and Clay Sherman (right).

These individuals served as agricultural science teachers whose careers, achievements, and contributions stand exemplary.

Inductees are known as well-rounded professionals that have proven their success with FFA activities, in the classroom, as well as community involvement. They have proven their desire to provide students with opportunities for premier leadership, personal growth and career success over a significant period of time.

These remarkable teachers were celebrated during the award ceremony at the 2024 ATAT Professional Development Conference, held July 26th in Dallas, Texas.

“Without educators like Mr. Black, ATAT and Texas FFA wouldn’t be where they are today,” says Ray Pieniazek, Executive Director of ATAT. “Our agriculture education teachers spend countless hours in professional development to better serve our students and prepare them for their future. We thank him for his years of service, and we honor his commitment with this Hall of Fame recognition.”

Black is a 1982 graduate of Fairfield High School. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Science in 1985 and a Master of Education in 1986, both from Sam Houston State University.

He began his teaching career at Wortham High School, from 1987-1989, before transferring to Fairfield High School, where he taught from 1989-2015, a total of 28 years.

During the induction, the Emcee stated that Black’s colleagues described him as one who “always went above and beyond to ensure student success, both in and out of the classroom,” and that “He always said that it’s better to remain silent and thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.”

Black is one of approximately 200 other Agricultural Educators that have received this great honor.

He and his wife Melinda Oakes Black are residents of Fairfield.