Bringing agriculture into the classroom can excite and impact young students and encourage them to learn more about agriculture, while also exposing them to a new set of opportunities.
Arleen James, an extension agent in Texas County, Oklahoma, contributed to this cause with the students of Hooker Public Schools.
As one of the recipients of the Oklahoma Pork Council’s Ag in the Classroom grant, James created seven lessons targeting kindergarten through second graders. Her goal was to bridge the gap between farm and fork by serving up tasty dishes to numerous students.
In a lesson showcasing wheat titled “Bread From Around the World,” students had the opportunity to make loaves of homemade bread. A walk-through of fresh vegetable samples in a farmers’ market were also brought to life in their classroom. The students even made cheese curds and cottage cheese!
James created a memorable experience for these students, and she enjoyed every moment.
“My favorite part of the project was the reaction of the students when I entered the classroom,” James said. “They were so excited to see me.
I truly enjoyed doing each of the sessions with the students,” James said.
She would not have been able to provide this opportunity to the students without the help from the Hooker 4-H and FFA members, James said.
“Other educators should apply for this grant because it gives [them] the [ability] to provide fun, educational opportunities that will be enjoyed by all who participate,” James said. “The funds provided by the Oklahoma Pork Council and the resources from the AG in the Classroom program allow you to provide quality education that is in compliance with Oklahoma Education standards.”