By Julie Tomascik
Editor
Agriculture is a mystery for some students and teachers. Its deep roots in Texas lie just beyond their classroom’s reach.
But Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) Summer Agricultural Institute can change that.
Teachers from across the Lone Star State get a first-hand look at agriculture and how to incorporate agricultural concepts into their course curriculum through the program.
“No matter the subject, agriculture has a place,” Mona Oney, TFB director of Educational Outreach, said. “We find a way to incorporate agriculture into what they’re already teaching. It’s not an extra step for them, but rather an enhancement to their curriculum.”
The four-day professional development seminar is set for June 5-8 at TFB’s Conference and Training Center in Waco.
“We aim to inspire and equip teachers with our program, and have done so for 23 years,” Oney said. “The teachers bring home lots of curriculum and first-hand experiences with ways to tie agriculture back into their classroom.”
Teachers also will make connections with farmers, ranchers and industry professionals.
This year, the program will include hands-on activities with a science-focus and incorporate field trips and tours. Participating teachers will explore soil and plant science with a visit to a flower farm. They’ll also discuss entomology, dairy, beef and more.
“We’ll talk about agriculture on a large and small scale. We’ll discuss the diversity of agriculture and how it all plays a role in our lives and classrooms,” Oney said. “We’ll be showcasing Central Texas agriculture, but we’ll also talk about agriculture as a whole in Texas.”
Teachers are eligible for 36 hours of professional development after completing the program.
Know a teacher hungry for more information? Encourage them to apply by May 5.
Applications for the Summer Agricultural Institute are available at county Farm Bureau offices and more information can be found here.
Cost is $375 per person in addition to travel, but Oney noted county Farm Bureaus may sponsor a scholarship for food, lodging and tuition.
Contact Oney at 254-751-2569 or at monaoney@txfb.org for more information.