PUXICO — Seeds are being planted in third grade classrooms across Missouri this spring as elementary students participate in Agriculture Education on the Move.
Through Ag Moves, an educational program of Missouri Farmers Care, students like those at Puxico learn how their lives are connected to agriculture through hands-on learning led by passionate educators in their classrooms, according to a press release from MFC.
During the 10-week program, students learn about crops, livestock, soil and water conservation, nutrition, careers in agriculture and more through. The STEM-focused lessons and curriculum meet state learning objectives in the areas of science, math, social studies and language arts, organizers said.
Hands-on activities are incorporated in each lesson, providing fun and interactive ways of learning as students make soybean germination necklaces, corn plastic, butter, feed rations, soil profiles and more. Through the curriculum, students learn about Missouri farm families and how the dedication and year-round efforts of these farmers and ranchers impact their lives.
Students at Puxico Elementary will learn about food, fuel, and fibers with local AEOTM educator Scotty Smothers this spring.
“It’s truly inspiring to see the seeds of knowledge being planted in classrooms across Missouri though Agriculture Education on the Move. This program not only teaches students about the vital connection between their lives and agriculture but also ignites a passion for learning and understanding where their food comes from,” said Denny Mertz, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council outreach and education chairman. “We’re proud of the dedication of our FFA partners and the enthusiastic educators who make this program possible, and we’re excited to continue growing and expanding its impact in communities statewide.”
Through partnerships with 535 FFA members in 91 FFA chapters, Ag Moves professional educators, and collegiate education interns, Ag Moves engaged over 10,000 third-grade students in 2023. The program’s reach has more than doubled since 2021. Missouri Farmers Care Foundation, which hosts Ag Moves, provides the supplies and curriculum at no cost to participating schools.
“The entire community benefits from Agriculture Education on the Move as local students experience the thrill of germinating seeds, understanding the basics of how their food is produced and opening their eyes, many for the first time, to the agriculture all around them,” said Ashley McCarty, Missouri Farmers Care executive director. “The connections the students make this semester will help inform their perspectives as future consumers and help them see the potential of agriculturally-related careers.”
Ag Moves is funded through Missouri Farmers Care, a coalition of more than 40 Missouri agriculture groups. Missouri soybean farmers and their checkoff and the MFA Oil Foundation support the program, along with contributions from Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, FCS Financial, MFA Incorporated, Missouri Beef Industry Council and the Missouri Fertilizer Control Board. To find out more or to become a partner, visit www.agmoves.com.