By Julie Tomascik
Editor
Texas teachers will learn more about agriculture and how to incorporate agricultural concepts in the classroom through Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) Summer Ag Institute (SAI).
“SAI is designed to be a hands-on, immersive experience where teachers truly learn how agriculture is science, math, social studies, technology and so many other subjects they are already teaching in their classrooms,” said Jordan Bartels, TFB associate director of Organization Division, Educational Outreach.
The professional development event is set for June 13-16 in Waco.
Teachers get to see the agricultural concepts demonstrated by educational professionals through SAI. They will also make connections with farmers, ranchers and industry professionals.
And there will be several opportunities for teachers to get their hands dirty.
Teachers will visit area farms, ranches and other agricultural businesses, as well as hear from experts in agriculture and education. Other fun, interactive demonstrations will help connect agriculture to classroom curriculum.
“Over the four-day institute, teachers will get to take part in many hands-on experiences as we cover numerous topics,” Bartels said. “But there are two key takeaways for teachers—that agriculture can be incorporated into any classroom subject and there are many resources available from Farm Bureau to help do just that.”
Upon completion, teachers bring home activity ideas, lesson plans and a wealth of resources and experiences. Teachers also receive 36 hours of continuing professional education credits as authorized by the Texas Education Agency.
Any certified, active K-12 teacher of any subject can register to attend, but Bartels noted the content does have a focus in science.
“Former participants have told us that although the content was focused more on science, they still took home valuable information and benefited from SAI no matter what subjects they taught,” she said.
The cost is $375 per person, which includes lodging and most meals, but sponsorships are often available.
Teachers will be notified of their sponsorship status after registration is complete.
Registration closes May 18.
For more information and to register, visit texasfarmbureau.org/aitc or contact Bartels at 254.751.2569 or edoutreach@txfb.org.
Additional information on other educational opportunities can also be found on the Ag in the Classroom webpage.