SAE programs were designed as an integral component in SBAE. However, participation has continued to decline. This qualitative study examined exemplary SAE programs in rural SBAE to discover factors that were working in SAE development and implementation. Through focus groups, individual and informal interviews, and observations, two themes that include 11 factors emerged from the data. This study found the agriculture teacher was the most important program partner in the development of an SAE program. Further, student learning must occur to ensure students continue to engage in an SAE program. The researchers recommended agriculture teachers utilize instructional time for the establishment, maintenance, and showcase of student SAE programs.