By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
Ten teachers were chosen to receive financial assistance from Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference this summer.
The conference, set for June 18-21 in Little Rock, Arkansas, is designed to show teachers how agricultural concepts can be used in subjects, such as reading, writing, math, science and social studies.
“Attending this conference helps equip teachers with the tools and understanding needed to incorporate agricultural concepts in their classroom,” Jett Mason, TFB director of Educational Outreach, said. “It’s an honor for TFB to assist these teachers in gaining valuable knowledge and skills.”
The 10 teachers selected for the scholarships include Charite Wright, Troup Elementary School; Cheryl Murrey, Monday Elementary; Dana Snyder, Old Union Elementary; Dorothy Cassetta, Carroll High School; Julie Wester, Creek View Elementary; Laura Glaze, St. Philip Catholic School; Marah Maclaire Walls, Fredericksburg High School; Meagan Elizabeth Terry, Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program–Excel Academy; Mendy Davis, Alvin Elementary; and Nanette Mills, Overton Ray Elementary.
The scholarship will help the recipients cover up to $500 in conference registration fees, airfare or mileage to Little Rock. Two meals will also be reimbursed.
“This is a great opportunity for these teachers to learn how agriculture can be used in their lesson plans,” Mason said. “The future of agriculture starts in these classrooms, and this is another way for Texas Farm Bureau to impact more students.”
TFB received 76 applications for the scholarships.
This is the first year TFB has awarded multiple teachers with financial assistance, Mason said. In previous years, only the state Agriculture in the Classroom Outstanding Teacher Award winner was sponsored.
Mary Beth Bauer, a science teacher at Our Lady of the Hills High School in Kerrville, was named the 2018 Agriculture in the Classroom Outstanding Teacher Award winner.
Those attending the conference will hear from keynote speakers, including Temple Grandin, a noted animal expert and advocate for the autistic community, and Dr. Marty Matlock, executive director of the University of Arkansas Resiliency Center.