Deadline nears for Ag in the Classroom program | Events

Educators interested in applying for this year’s Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute have until April 15 to submit applications.

A grassroots program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, AITC teaches educators about agriculture and introduces them to new strategies for incorporating agriculture into their classrooms. Eligible applicants include K-6 teachers, media specialists and administrators.

The 2012 program will be held at the Marriott Grand National in Opelika, June 12-14. Tuition is free, and teachers can receive continuing education credits for the workshop.

AITC attendees will get their hands dirty with agricultural activities and field trips to working farms. They also will receive take-home educational materials and teaching strategies to incorporate agricultural education into their classrooms and schools.

“It’s very important to expose children to agriculture in the classroom because nowadays, many children never learn about rural life or the importance of farming,” said AITC Chairman Kim Earwood, who also serves as director of the Alabama Farmers Federation Women’s Leadership Division.

Sponsors of the program include the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alfa Insurance, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, the Alabama Poultry Contract Growers Association, the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association, the Alabama Farmers Federation State Soybean Committee and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. Proceeds from the sale of ag tag license plates also benefit the program.

Lodging, meals and workshop materials are provided for AITC participants. Applications are available online at AlabamaAITC.org.

For more information, contact Earwood at (334) 612-5370 or kearwood@alfafarmers.org. Mail applications to: Kim Earwood, Alabama Ag in the Classroom, P.O. Box 11000, Montgomery, AL 36191.

Source:  ALFA