2018 National AITC Conference
Detailed Schedule/Presenter Materials
Monday, June 25, 2018
time
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Pre-Pre-Conference Tour: Experience Maine at its BEST on Land & Sea
[Offsite]
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
time
6:30 AM - 11:30 PM
Exhibit Set-up
[Exhibit Hall]
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
NAITCO Breakfast (State Contacts)
[Connecticut - Rhode Island]
7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Pre-Conference Tour: Darling Marine Center and Oyster Tour on the River Tripper
[Offsite]
8:00 AM - 3:30 PM
NAITCO Meeting (State Contacts)
[Massachusetts]
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
NAITCO Lunch (State Contacts)
[Connecticut - Rhode Island]
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Registration
4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Pre-Conference Tour: Lobster Bake
[Offsite]
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
time
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Oxford
Somerset
York
Cumberland
Kennebec
Lincoln
6:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Exhibit Set-up
[Exhibit Hall]
6:00 AM - 5:45 PM
Registration
6:30 AM - 7:20 AM
Traveling Workshop Breakfast (Buffet)
[New Hampshire - Vermont]
7:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Traveling Workshops
11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Exhibits Open
[Exhibit Hall]
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
3:15 PM - 3:30 PM
Coffee Break
3:15 PM - 4:30 PM
Agriculture Advocate and White-Reinhardt Award Rehearsal Session
[Ballroom]
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
4:30 PM - 4:45 PM
Coffee Break
4:30 PM - 5:45 PM
State Teacher of the Year Rehearsal Session
[Ballroom]
4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Reception - Bar, Line Dancing
[Exhibit Hall]
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Opening Dinner - Ag Advocate Award and Bingo
[Ballroom]
Thursday, June 28, 2018
time
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Oxford
Somerset
York
Cumberland
Kennebec
Lincoln
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Award Breakfast - White Reinhardt and CHS Scholarship Awards, State Teacher WinnersAward Breakfast - White Reinhardt Winners, CHS Foundation Scholarship Winners and Parade of State Winning Teachers
[Ballroom]
7:00 AM - 5:45 PM
Registration
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
USDA Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award Rehearsal Session
[Ballroom]
8:45 AM - 9:45 AM
9:45 AM - 10:00 AM
Coffee Break
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
11:00 AM - 11:15 AM
Coffee Break
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM
12:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Award Luncheon - National Teacher Awards
[Ballroom]
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Coffee Break
3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
Exhibit Break
[Exhibit Hall]
4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
4:45 PM - 5:45 PM
Exhibit Breakdown
[Exhibit Hall]
Friday, June 29, 2018
time
Connecticut
Rhode Island
Oxford
Somerset
York
Cumberland
Kennebec
Lincoln
7:00 AM - 8:45 AM
Closing Breakfast - Featured Speakers: Roger Doiron, SeedMoney, MAD Science
The Power of Gardens[Ballroom]
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Registration
Mini-Workshop Sessions. Presentations are 25 minutes long, repeated 3 times. (Choose 3)
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
9:30 AM - 10:00 AM
10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Coffee Break
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
11:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Post-Conference Tour: Kennebunkport town of Presidents and History
[Offsite]
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Aquaculture in the Classroom
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Sebastian Belle
Email:
maineaqua@aol.com
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
Biography:
N/A
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
The Power of Gardens
Food gardens have the power to teach us, nourish us, heal us, and lift us up when we're feeling down. Through his work and his own personal travels, Roger Doiron has had an opportunity to be involved with a number of garden projects that have helped shift the conversation about healthy foods and sustainable communities. In his talk, Roger shares stories of some of the most inspirational gardens and gardeners he has encountered and the work that his nonprofit, SeedMoney, is doing to empower more people to grow healthy gardens of their own.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Roger Doiron
Email:
N/A
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Biosketch:
Roger Doiron is founder and director of SeedMoney, a Maine-based nonprofit helping food garden projects to thrive across the country and around the world. His work and ideas have been featured in the Chicago Tribune, International Herald Tribune, New York Times and the Washington Post. His successful proposal and petition campaign to replant a kitchen garden at the White House gathered over 100,000 signatures and international media coverage and was voted the grand prize winner of the “On Day One” contest sponsored by the United Nations Foundation. His work on the White House campaign also earned him the “Heart of Green” award, the Garden Crusader Award, recognition as one of the country’s top five “Green Game Changers“ by the readers and editors of the Huffington Post and one of the ”10 Most Inspiring People in Sustainable Food“ by the editors of Fast Company magazine. Although grounded in his own local food system, Doiron remains interested in and connected to international food issues. Doiron first became involved in food issues in Europe as head of Friends of the Earth’s European office in Brussels during the 1990s at the height of the Europe’s mad cow furor. He was also part of the American NGO delegation to 1996 UN World Food Summit. Doiron is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Holy Cross College and holds a Master of International Relations degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. He enjoys cooking, gardening and eating with his three Belgo-American sons and his wife Jacqueline.
Organization/Affiliation:
SeedMoney
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
A Seedy Fruit Challenge
Come learn about seeds and different types of fruit in this fun, hands-on workshop. Participants will be led through lessons from "What Do Plants Need to Grow?" and plant a garden in a glove while meeting all education standards.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Liz Baskins
Email:
liz@learnaboutag.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
California
Main Phone:
9165615637
Biosketch:
Liz Baskins serves as the Outreach Coordinator for the California Foundation for Ag in the Classroom. She loves promoting agricultural education and has a background in agriculture. She enjoys teaching, science, animals, and games. She hopes she inspires you to use Ag in your Classroom!
Organization/Affiliation:
California Foundation for Ag in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Drive through Florida: Aquaculture and Seafood
A non-fiction book entitled "Drive through Florida: Aquaculture and Seafood" - developed by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom and Florida Department of Agriculture and - features 13 aquaculture and wild-caught seafood species. The book has reached thousands of elementary school students in Florida classrooms on Florida Agriculture Literacy Day. Topics include commercial uses for each species, sustainability efforts, major geographic areas of production and common attributes. Attendees will receive books for use in their educational settings and supplemental hands-on resources. Attendees will also be able to compare Florida aquaculture and wild-caught seafood harvesting to the production of other states.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Arlette Roberge
Email:
Arlette.Roberge@FreshFromFlorida.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
850-617-7326
Biosketch:
Arlette Roberge has been employed in the fields of advertising, visual communications and public relations for over 25 years, working for various advertising agencies and publishing companies. While serving as Public Information Director for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, she was responsible for the development of environmental, consumer, food safety and agriculture commodity campaigns in print media. Currently working in the area of agriculture education, she develops and expands agriculture education programs to assist the goals of related agriculture education organizations.
Organization/Affiliation:
Florida Department of Agricuture and Consumer Services
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
School Garden to Table
Take part in an interactive session hosted by Florida Agriculture in the Classroom that goes straight from the garden to the table. First, participate in a “Square Foot Salsa Garden Lesson” as participates learn how to properly space and grow components of salsa. Next, learn the science behind cooking as we prepare blender salsa and other delicious treats from the garden! Each participant will leave with a copy of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom’s book Gardening For Grades, the Salsa Garden lesson plan and his or her taste buds singing!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Tracee Schiebel
Email:
SCHIEBEL@AGTAG.ORG
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
3528461391
Biosketch:
Tracee Schiebel joined Florida Agriculture in the Classroom at their Education Program Manager in June 2017. Tracee has a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business Management from State University of New York at Cobleskill and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida. Before joining FAITC, Tracee was a HungerU member, traveling the country educating students about agricultural solutions to hunger, as well as substitute teaching when not traveling. Before attending college Tracee was a New York FFA state officer.
Organization/Affiliation:
Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.
Becky Sponholtz
Email:
sponholtz@agtag.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
352-846-1391
Biosketch:
Becky Sponholtz is the Executive Director of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc., a post she has held since February 2017. Before that, she served as FAITC's Education Program Manager. Before that, she was a middle and high school agri-science instructor and FFA advisor for nine years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and her Master of Agriculture from Auburn University. She is married to Corbin Sponholtz and has a son, Landon and daughter, Chandlee.
Organization/Affiliation:
Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
How the Midwest Shapes the World
The Breadbasket, the Corn Belt, the Heartland. Whatever you call it, the Midwest is an integral part of America’s agricultural identity. In this session, we’ll explore surprising ways in which products of the Midwest are essential to our daily lives, and how they are shaping technologies and materials of the future.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Brad Banning
Email:
bbanning@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
3095572019
Biosketch:
Brad Banning is the Education Manager at Illinois Ag in The Classroom, and has been a part of the state staff there since 2015. Originally from the Chicagoland area, he is a graduate of Illinois State University in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois where he studied Middle-Level Education with a focus on English Language Arts, Reading, and Social Studies. Brad utilizes new technologies, and learning strategies to help Illinois Ag in the Classroom design curriculum that is relevant, innovative, challenging and engaging.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois Ag in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Tapping Into Maple Tradition
Explore our comprehensive educational maple production curriculum for K-12. Lessons use this quintessential industry to teach core academic subjects such as science, chemistry, history, economics, language arts, engineering, nutrition, etc. The centerpiece of the project is a video addressing a variety of educational topics involved in the production of maple syrup. A classroom poster compliments the video. From there, we continue to add core academic lessons based on maple production. Join our workshop to discuss the project details, view a portion of the video, discuss some of the lessons and roll up your sleeves to try a few activities.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Debbi Cox
Email:
nhaitc@nhfarmbureau.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
New Hampshire
Main Phone:
603-315-4990
Biosketch:
Growing up in the horse world, Debbi Cox always had an interest in agriculture. When her children entered high school, they became deeply involved in FFA. She continues to work with the organization as the NH FFA State Foundation President. This led to her current position as the NH Ag in the Classroom State Coordinator. She also help out the NH Career and Technical Administrators along with SkillsUSA.
Organization/Affiliation:
New Hampshire Agriculture in the Classroom
Christopher Szkutak
Email:
crszku10@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Massachusetts
Main Phone:
5082070370
Biosketch:
Christopher Szkutak is an award-winning program developer and certified educator who specializes in developing standards-based educational programs for students and adults. He has worked with a variety of different organizations from local historical societies to state and national organizations. Currently, Christopher is a high school math teacher at Whitman-Hanson Regional High School where he developed a class that incorporates hands-on activities and agriculture to help students make mathematical decisions. He also serves a member of the Board of Directors and Technical Consultant for Massachusetts Agriculture in the Classroom. He has a BA in Political Science and Math from College of the Holy Cross and a MSC in U.S. History from the University of London.
Organization/Affiliation:
Massachusetts Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
T and E of STEM with Aeroponics
Experience the “T & E” of STEM through aeroponics! Grow plants aeroponically in your classroom and learn how to engage your students with a design challenge for misting plants through the coding of Arduino boards for automatic watering. The Next Generation Science Standards performance expectations, engineering practices, cross-cutting concepts, and disciplinary core ideas will be addressed through this hands-on workshop.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Alisha Hill
Email:
alisha.hill@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-797-0765
Biosketch:
Alisha Hill is the resource coordinator and developer for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy. She is responsible for linking instructional resources on the National Agricultural Literacy Curriculum Matrix with hands-on “resources on the grow” at agclassroomstore.com.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy; Utah State University
Debra Spielmaker
Email:
debra.spielmaker@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Presenter 2
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-213-5562
Biosketch:
Debra Spielmaker is a Professor at Utah State University in the School of Applied Sciences, Education, and Technology. In addition to her faculty role at Utah State University, Debra serves as the Team Leader for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy. Debra taught agricultural science for seven years in Utah and Montana, and directed the Utah Agriculture in the Classroom program for 20 years. She conducts works on program evaluation, student assessment, and has developed numerous K-12 classroom resources for science, social studies, nutrition, and Career and Technical Education.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy; Utah State University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Cow to Cup: Understanding Dairy Production and Careers in the Dairy Industry
This presentation introduces a series of online modules developed to teach students about dairy production, and careers in the dairy industry. These interactive modules can either be used as part of a classroom presentation, or can be provided to students to work through independently in preparation for a more in depth discussion. Modules cover careers and STEM topics in breeding and genetics, farm-based production, processing of products and retailing agricultural products. The modules have been developed purposefully for alignment with science, health and wellness and other standards at the high school level.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Emma Allen
Email:
allen129@purdue.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Indiana
Main Phone:
7654948433
Biosketch:
Emma Allen is a graduate of Purdue University, where she earned a Bachelor's in Animal Sciences, and a Master's in Youth Development and Agricultural Education. Emma is passionate about teaching agriculture to people, especially those from a non-agricultural background. Emma developed and tested the Cow to Cup production modules as a primary component of her M.S. research.
Organization/Affiliation:
Purdue University
Kristy Oates
Email:
koates@purdue.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Indiana
Main Phone:
7654948433
Biosketch:
Kristy Oates earned her BS and MS degrees at Purdue University. Her BS is in Animal Science, and her MS is in Youth Development and Agricultural Education, with a focus on Instructional Design.Kristy is passionate about youth understanding the breadth of careers available in the agricultural industry, and not limiting themselves to the often thought of choices such as veterinary medicine. Kristy developed the Cow to Cup Careers modules as a component of her MS degree, and is currently working at Purdue University as an Instructional Designer.
Organization/Affiliation:
Purdue University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
AgCultures: A Global Ag Adventure
Embark on an exciting journey focused on the future of agriculture through the lens of global scientists, farmers and innovators! Workshop attendees will investigate AgCultures, a new, free online education program with lessons, videos and collaboration tools from the University of Minnesota’s Learning Technologies Media Lab. The AgCultures team is undertaking a series of expeditions over three years that capture extraordinary stories about agriculture from around the globe. Workshop participants will get a glimpse into these fantastic video resources and hands-on experience with the geography, STEM and career focused curricular pieces for middle school and high school students.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Sue Knott
Email:
sue.knott@state.mn.us
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Minnesota
Main Phone:
6512016486
Biosketch:
Sue Knott's agriculture roots were established on her family's farm in southwestern Minnesota. Experiences in 4-H, FFA and helping raise crops and livestock inspired her to earn a degree in agricultural education from the University of Minnesota. She taught high school agriculture classes for nine years before joining the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom team as Education Specialist. In this role, Sue enjoys providing professional development that empowers educators to integrate agriculture into their classroom and curricula.
Organization/Affiliation:
Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Agriculture in the Classroom: A S.T.E.A.M.Y Combination
This presentation will show teachers how to integrate agriculture and STEM into their core curriculum. Teachers will participate in hands on activities to create solutions and solve problems using STEM concepts in real-world situations. Participants will receive ideas and lessons that can be taken and used immediately in the classroom.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Sarah Glenn
Email:
sglenn@1hsd.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Arkansas
Main Phone:
479-738-6228
Biosketch:
Sarah Glenn is currently the EAST facilitator for grades 3-8 at Huntsville Intermediate School. She has a Bachelor's in Psychology from Arkansas Tech University. She has worked in the mental health field for 10 years before getting her teacher certification for preschool through eighth grade. She received the 2010 Arkansas Ag in the Classroom Outstanding Teacher of the Year and the 2011 Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture National Award.
Organization/Affiliation:
Huntsville Intermediate School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Exploring Aquaponics in the Elementary Classroom
Aquaponics is a symbiotic system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics in a recirculating ecosystem. This session will introduce STEM lessons and resources featured in the National Agricultural Literacy Curriculum Matrix that have been developed to engage elementary students in an exploration of aquaculture, hydroponics, and aquaponics while investigating the themes of sustainable food production and ecological cycles. Participants will discover how to create affordable, small-scale hydroponic and aquaponic systems designed specifically for the elementary classroom.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Lynn Wallin
Email:
lynn.wallin@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-512-8734
Biosketch:
Lynn Wallin is an Education Specialist for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy (NCAL) at Utah State University. Prior to her work with NCAL, Lynn was an Education Specialist for Utah Agriculture in the Classroom and taught grades 1, 2, 3, and 4 in Utah and Arizona. Lynn received a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Brigham Young University and a Master of Education degree from Utah State University.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
STEAM Your Way Into the Classroom
Learn how one school teamed up with their state Ag in the Classroom Program to literally bring Agriculture into the Classroom. Participants will see how the program matched all grade levels with individual farmers and ranchers across the state for an interactive pen-pal program that included letters, classroom visits and Skype field trips. Participants will see the results of this school-wide curriculum effort that provided the most successful quarter-long STEAM Event in the school’s history. Participants will leave with a “How to Guide” so that they can create their own STEAM success!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Katie Aikins
Email:
katieaikins@azfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Arizona
Main Phone:
480-635-3608
Biosketch:
As Director of Education for Arizona Farm Bureau, Katie Aikins performs the educational functions of the Farm Bureau that contributes to an increase in agriculture awareness in the K-12 classroom and beyond. This includes the development of new curriculum and programs that engage the public in hot button issues in agriculture. Aikins holds a Masters of Science in Agricultural Education from the University of Arizona. She has worked in both the classroom and research side of agricultural literacy.
Organization/Affiliation:
Arizona Farm Bureau
Sarahbeth Belvado
Email:
sbelvado@qcusd.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
3
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Arizona
Main Phone:
602-689-7744
Biosketch:
Sarahbeth Belvado is a classroom teacher in the Queen Creek Unified School District where she serves as a kindergarten teacher. At her school, Gateway Polytechnic Academy, Belvado serves as the lead contact for the partnership the school has formed with the Arizona Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom Program.
Organization/Affiliation:
Teacher at Gateway Polytechnic Academy
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Tractor Mac in the Classroom
Billy Steers is the author of the popular children’s book series, Tractor Mac, about a big red tractor and his adventures on Stony Meadow Farm. Using a large drawing box, Billy’s visual presentation combines his talents as an author and illustrator with his knowledge of agriculture and family farms. He discusses the book creation process and how the stories and the artwork evolve and allows time for questions and answers at the end. His books have an educational component with detailed diagrams of farm machinery and subjects. The stories each have a lesson such as friendship, patience, and cooperation.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Billy Steers
Email:
juliesteers@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Connecticut
Main Phone:
8606018617
Biosketch:
Billy Steers is an author and illustrator. He created the 'Tractor Mac' book series in 1999 inspired by a love of machinery, farm life and by his experiences growing up on a small hobby farm in Connecticut. Presently, there are 14 storybooks in the series aimed at ages 3-7 as well as various specialty formats designed for younger readers. When Billy is not drawing, he is a commercial pilot with American Airlines.
Organization/Affiliation:
Tractor Mac LLC
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
A New Twist on Old Favorites from American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
You make an impact every day with students as you make powerful farm to fork connections. Discover the latest tools from the American Farm Bureau Foundation to support your efforts. We’ll get our hands on the new My Little Ag Me game on MyAmericanFarm.org, explore the life-size fair display kits, and have fun with the newest trivia tools related to Food and Farm Facts. We’ll strategize how you can use these resources to add to your agricultural literacy efforts!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Angela Mayfield
Email:
educationdirector@fb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
California
Main Phone:
8004438456
Biosketch:
Angela Mayfield is passionate about learning, serving, and representing the agriculture industry. Angela graduated from California State University Chico with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Science and a minor in Spanish. She began her teaching career as an agriculture science and biology teacher in Santa Rosa, California. She then moved to a seven-person agriculture department in the top producing agriculture county in the nation, Tulare County. Along with her colleagues, Angela managed a 100-acre school farm, including a working dairy, cotton, alfalfa, greenhouse production, hog farrowing facilities, and sheep production facility. Today Angela works for Vivayic, Inc as an instructional designer and manages the role of Education Director for the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture. She currently lives in Plymouth, California, with her husband Josiah, daughter Reagan and son Elijah.
Organization/Affiliation:
American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Leah Pratt
Email:
educationdirector@fb.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Idaho
Biosketch:
Leah Pratt is passionate about agriculture, education, and public health. She’s an education specialist with the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture (AFBFA) where she develops new resources for K-12 educators. She graduated from California State University, Chico with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Science and a minor in Human Nutrition. Leah currently lives on cattle ranch in Blackfoot, Idaho.
Organization/Affiliation:
American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Breakout for Agriculture
As part of the 2017 FIRE UP grant awards, join the Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom program sharing the BREAKOUT for Agriculture boxes. Specially designed STEM related activities use an introduction or capstone event related specifically to agriculture.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Kevin Daugherty
Email:
kdaugherty@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
3092617334
Biosketch:
Kevin Daugherty is the Education Director for the Illinois AITC Program. And Illinois is the Pumpkin Capital of the U.S. This presentation was meant to be! Daugherty holds a Bachelor's in Secondary Education from the University Illinois and a Master's in Higher Education from Eastern Illinois University. A former Junior High and High School History and English teacher, Daugherty worked for as a implementation and curriculum developer for a publishing company before joining the Illinois Farm Bureau AITC Program in 2000. He is the Illinois AITC Contact, and Post-Chairman of the National Conference Planning Committee. He hosted National Conferences in 2001 in Chicago, and 2008 in St. Louis. Daugherty is married, and has three children. He is active in his church, and serves as the President of the LeRoy CUSD #2 Board of Education in LeRoy, IL.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Thinking Critically about Farming, Food, and Sustainability
Many consumers have questions about the food they purchase. Are certain food production practices harmful to our land, air, or water? What does it mean for agriculture to be sustainable? Are farmers good stewards of the earth? Does consuming meat or milk support animal cruelty? Does buying conventional produce or eating meat promote environmental harm? During this workshop, participants will investigate and compare sources of food and farming-focused information, try activities that exercise critical thinking and active discussion, and discover ways to critically explore agricultural and environmental topics in the classroom and beyond.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Rhodora Collins
Email:
rcollins@dekalbfarmbureau.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
815-756-6361
Biosketch:
Rhodora Collins started working at DeKalb County Farm Bureau in 1998 after working in environmental education. As agricultural literacy coordinator, she takes pride in building connections between teachers, students, and farmers. During the school year, she brings agriculture into schools by coordinating ag volunteers to deliver classroom presentations. In summer, she gives teachers first-hand ag experiences during her county’s Summer Ag Institute. Throughout the year, whether conducting workshops, developing lessons, writing articles, or guiding volunteers, she strives to reinforce the link between those who are not from farms and those who live and breathe agriculture. Rhodora earned a Bachelor's in elementary education from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1992 and a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction from Northern Illinois University in 2001. She continues to learn about food production by reading agricultural and science publications and farm blogs, touring farms and agribusinesses, and by constantly asking questions of farmers and scientists.
Organization/Affiliation:
DeKalb County Farm Bureau
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Digital Soil Science
In this workshop, attendees will get to participate in hands-on activities that collaborate with digital resources. As a non-profit, Nutrients for Life Foundations resources are free to educators. Attendees will receive 'Nourishing the Planet in the 21st Century' STEM curriculum and the interactive digital supplements. By the end of the workshop, educators will be equipped with soil science materials, activities, and resources.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Debra Kearney
Email:
DKearney@nutrientsforlife.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
District of Columbia
Main Phone:
6418914182
Biosketch:
The Nutrients for Life Foundation is an educational non-profit that provides information and resources to educators and the public about the vital role fertilizers play in feeding our world. All of its resources are science-based, user-friendly, and utilized by educators across the country.
Organization/Affiliation:
Nutrients For Life Foundation
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Agriculture, a Common Theme
Participants will use informational texts about food, clothing, and homes to identify common themes. They will identify ways to move from explicit themes (all are our basic needs) to more implicit understanding of the topic. Text structures (cause/effect, problem/solution, etc.) will be modeled to write about the information discovered.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Kristen Wescott
Email:
kristenwescott@rsu57.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
(207) 749-7557
Biosketch:
Kristen Wescott, grew up on a Dairy Farm in Albion, Maine. Her summers were filled with haying and showing dairy cattle at the fairs. After graduating from the University of Maine at Orono, She began my 30 year teaching career. In this time she has taught grades 3 through 6, including 7 years as a 3,4,5 multiage classroom teacher. During these years she has integrated the teaching of agricultural topics into all content areas. It was these teachings that helped her become Maine's Agricultural Teacher of the Year, a National Award Winning Teacher of the Year, a White Rienhardt recipient, and the York County Soil and Conservation Teacher of the Year. She has presented at the National Ag in the Classroom Conferences in St. Louis, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. She is currently teaching fourth grade at Line Elementary School in Limerick, Maine.
Organization/Affiliation:
Maine Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Farming Fun for Everyone! A Workshop Focused on Modifications for Students with Special Needs
I work for the Helen Keller School of Alabama, a part of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind. We are building a 30-acre working farm. My presentation will focus on teaching students with special needs. I will included tips and strategies on creating modifications specific for deaf/hard of hearing, blind/low vision and students with multiple disabilities. My activities are not modified lesson plans, but actual hands on activities that address transition standards and encourage development across all domains. We have a greenhouse and raise chickens. I have taught every grade level K-12 in special education.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Rachel Chastain
Email:
chastain.rachel@aidb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Alabama
Main Phone:
2562520620
Biosketch:
Rachel Chastain works as teacher at the Helen Keller School (HKS) of Alabama. HKS is part of the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB). AIDB is the world’s most comprehensive education, rehabilitation and service program serving individuals of all ages who are deaf, blind, deaf-blind and multidisabled. Rachel teaches AgriScience in the Transition Department.
Organization/Affiliation:
Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind, The Helen Keller School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Using a Pizza Garden to Engage Exceptional Students in Multisensory Learning Opportunities
In this presentation, I will share how our project “Growing a Pizza Garden” was used to engage exceptional students in grades 9th-12th in STEM activities. Connecting real life opportunities to the curriculum is a key element to progress in acquiring life skills. Many students who do not excel in traditional classroom pen and paper tasks excel in multi-sensory activities. The results were documented: spontaneous verbal communication and socially appropriate behaviors increased during the activities, science and math objectives were mastered from the Alabama Alternative Assessment, and career exploration goals were achieved. And it was fun!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Shelley Jones
Email:
jonessb@bibbed.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Alabama
Main Phone:
205-913-3139
Biosketch:
Shelley Jones is a speech/language pathologist employed by the Bibb County Board of Education. She currently serves eight schools in this rural community. She has been a 4H Volunteer leader for 26 years. She lives on a 100 acre horse rescue that is home to 25 rescue horses. She often uses the horses in school programs and her therapy dog Webster comes to work with her.
Organization/Affiliation:
Bibb County Board of Education
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Keeping Honeybees in YOUR School!
The Hampden Academy Beekeeping Club was established to give students and staff at the school an in-depth appreciation of the role and value of honeybees in the environment. The program, including colonies housed on the school grounds, allows members first-hand experience in bee husbandry, equipment use, honey and beeswax harvesting, as well as the packaging and selling of the products. Activities are linked to curriculum whenever possible. This workshop will describe establishment of the program including obstacles and outcomes, hoping to help and encourage other schools across the country in similar programs.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Peter & Anne Cowin
Email:
petercowin@tds.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Biosketch:
Peter Cowin, also known as “The Bee Whisperer” is a semi-professional beekeeper and instructor who has been keeping honeybees since he was 11. He manages about 70 colonies, is president of the Penobscot County Beekeepers, and teaches classes all over the state through adult education programs. Anne Cowin is the “Jobs for Maine Graduates” specialist at Hampden Academy and founded the Beekeeping Club there while working as a library assistant. Hampden School District has their own hives on the school grounds and Anne coordinates club activities with students and staff at the high school.
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
All Aboard! STEAM Your Way to Ag Literacy
During this STEM/STEAM workshop, we will share our progress with the Ag Literacy Reader program that we developed as a partnership between our high school and local elementary school. Watch high school students in action as they conduct “live plant” and “live animal” demonstrations! Learn how to replicate this concept in your schools—using high school students, ag-industry business leaders, and community volunteers. Participants will take part in hands-on “Ag-tivities” in an experiential learning environment, just as students would in a real classroom visit. All materials are aligned to Common Core Standards and National Agricultural Literacy Outcomes.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Lisa Owens
Email:
lisamicheleowens@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Louisiana
Main Phone:
318-245-2117
Biosketch:
Lisa Owens serves as a volunteer for the Louisiana Ag in the Classroom state committee. She has been actively involved with Ag in the Classroom since 2002, when she attended her first AITC teacher workshop. Lisa was awarded the Louisiana Excellence in Agriculture Award in 2004, and has since attended and presented at numerous local, regional, state, and national AITC workshops and conferences. Mrs. Owens is currently teaching English and Fine Arts, and serves as librarian/media center specialist for Homer High School. She works with the local Farm Bureau organizations in Lincoln Parish and Claiborne Parish, helping to coordinate AITC literacy programs and fall teacher workshops in her district. Lisa’s hobbies include reading, gardening, and cooking for family and friends. She also enjoys traveling and collecting educational materials and new ideas to share with her students and her fellow teachers.
Organization/Affiliation:
Lincoln Parish Farm Bureau/Homer High School
Erika Anderson
Email:
erika.anderson@claibornepsb.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Louisiana
Main Phone:
318-927-2985
Biosketch:
Erika Anderson got involved with Ag in the Classroom last year when she received a CHS Scholarship to attend the national AITC conference. Agriculture has always been a huge part of her life, growing up on a small family farm and being extremely active in the 4-H program. After volunteering and working several years with the extension service, she now serves as the ag science and vocational science teacher at Homer High School. She also serves as the FFA and 4-H advisor. When she is not working with her students, she spends her time taking care of the family farm and showing her registered Paint and Pinto horses.
Organization/Affiliation:
Homer High School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Bring Agriculture to Life with Virtual Reality
Come explore Virtual Reality technology and see how you might use it in your classroom or program to bring agricultural topics and processes to life. The workshop will start from the beginning and explore technology needs, equipment and how to use virtual reality. We'll explore existing resources including Google Expeditions, Google Street View and other content developed by organizations and individuals across the country. Of course, we'll discuss curriculum connections and integration. Come ready to experience this exciting technology!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jessica Jansen
Email:
jessica.jansen@oregonstate.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oregon
Main Phone:
971-832-2096
Biosketch:
Jessica Jansen is the Executive Director of Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom, where she oversees the day-to-day operations of Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom and works to develop the program to meet the ever-changing needs of Oregon educators and promote the greatest industry in the world, agriculture.Jessica is a graduate of Oregon State University with degrees in Agricultural Sciences and Communication. She is passionate about equipping teachers with relevant resources and inspiring students in agriculture.
Organization/Affiliation:
Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom
Danielle Meyersick
Email:
danielle.meyersick@oregonstate.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Oregon
Main Phone:
5417371318
Biosketch:
Danielle Meyersick serves as the Education Programs Coordinator for Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom. She holds an undergraduate degree in Animal Sciences with a minor in Agricultural Sciences from Oregon State University (OSU). Shortly after graduation, Danielle returned to OSU to pursue a Master of Agriculture degree. Her three areas of study consisted of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Education, and Rangeland Ecology and Management. Prior to joining Oregon AITC she spent two years coordinating an Adopt-a-Farmer program pairing middle school science classrooms with farmers for a year.
Organization/Affiliation:
Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Engaging Students via Issues-based Topics
This session presents teaching strategies for student engagement that increase understanding and help students broaden their personal perspectives when addressing issues in agriculture. Designed to include all styles of learners, these hands-on strategies give students ownership of their learning. Agricultural literacy is taught using creative techniques—a readers’ theater, futures wheel, concept maps, infographics, social media positions, decision matrices (and many more)—that give students opportunities to speak their voices and think critically. These strategies will also help students who may feel vulnerable expressing their opinions or openly changing their opinions. Suitable for secondary, college, adult, and volunteer audiences.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Denise Stewardson
Email:
denise.stewardson@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-797-1592
Biosketch:
Denise Stewardson is an Extension Associate Professor and Director of the Utah Agriculture in the Classroom program at Utah State University. As a faculty member in the School of Applied Sciences, Technology & Education, she also teaches a social science-based agricultural literacy course on global food production for students of all majors. Denise has a Bachelor's degree in technology education from Eastern Illinois University and a Master's degree in Industrial Arts from the University of Maryland. Denise was born and raised in central Illinois—the Land of Lincoln—among the corn and soybean fields. Combining her formal education in technology education with an emphasis in communication, and her work experience with Agriculture in the Classroom, it seems only fitting that she is now paying homage to her roots as an advocate for agricultural literacy.
Organization/Affiliation:
Utah Agriculture in the Classroom, Director
Rose Judd-Murray
Email:
rose.juddmurray@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-512-4706
Biosketch:
Rose Judd-Murray is a 20-year veteran of agricultural, environmental, and outdoor education programs. Her specialties include online course development, institute and workshop presentation, pre-service educational programs (K-6), and all aspects of curriculum review and development. She received both a Bachelor and Masters of Science from Utah State University and is currently a doctoral candidate at Utah State University. She is seeking a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the College of Teaching, Education, and Leadership (TEAL), with a concentration in Instructional Leadership. Her dissertation work will focus on building an assessment instrument to determine if university students are agriculturally and environmentally literate. Rose has a passion for all aspects of higher education and seeks for ways to build relationships with her students. She feels that student mentoring is one of the most important ways to accelerate and secure student success at the university level.
Organization/Affiliation:
Utah State University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
But, I want a NEW book!
Take a look at NEW books relating to agriculture! We'll highlight books published and released in 2016, 2017 and 2018!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Kevin Daugherty
Email:
kdaugherty@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
3092617334
Biosketch:
Kevin Daugherty is the Education Director for the Illinois AITC Program. And Illinois is the Pumpkin Capital of the U.S. This presentation was meant to be! Daugherty holds a Bachelor's in Secondary Education from the University Illinois and a Master's in Higher Education from Eastern Illinois University. A former Junior High and High School History and English teacher, Daugherty worked for as a implementation and curriculum developer for a publishing company before joining the Illinois Farm Bureau AITC Program in 2000. He is the Illinois AITC Contact, and Post-Chairman of the National Conference Planning Committee. He hosted National Conferences in 2001 in Chicago, and 2008 in St. Louis. Daugherty is married, and has three children. He is active in his church, and serves as the President of the LeRoy CUSD #2 Board of Education in LeRoy, IL.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Genetic Engineering and the Seed Science
Genetic modification goes by many names: Genetic Engineering, GMOs, Biotechnology, and Recombinant DNA. Though similar techniques have been used to save lives in the pharmaceutical industry (insulin) and to produce delicious cheeses (rennin), when it comes to crops, the technology comes with great controversy. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) - What they are, what they aren’t, the benefits, the challenges, and the future of genetic engineering science. During the session educators will be provided with tools for classroom discussions, debates, and hands-on lesson plans.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Valerie Bayes
Email:
valerie.n.bayes@monsanto.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Missouri
Main Phone:
314-478-8359
Biosketch:
'I don’t know all the answers- that’s why I keep asking questions.' Tangible learner. Dangerously curious. Valerie Bayes holds a degree in Biological Sciences from University of Missouri-Columbia and a Master's Degree from Lindenwood University in Teaching with certification in secondary biology. She serves as Monsanto’s STEM Engagement Lead in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up Valerie often found her curiosity getting her into trouble. From building treehouses out of recycled materials to jumping off the roof with an umbrella – asking “why” and “how” she has always been the curious type asking about phenomena and testing hypothesis. She is a strong advocate for the scientific method. Her work focuses on creating authentic agricultural experiences demonstrating the sophistication and integral nature of STEM through agriculture.
Organization/Affiliation:
Monsanto Company
Debra Spielmaker
Email:
debra.spielmaker@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Presenter 2
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-213-5562
Biosketch:
Debra Spielmaker is a Professor at Utah State University in the School of Applied Sciences, Education, and Technology. In addition to her faculty role at Utah State University, Debra serves as the Team Leader for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy. Debra taught agricultural science for seven years in Utah and Montana, and directed the Utah Agriculture in the Classroom program for 20 years. She conducts works on program evaluation, student assessment, and has developed numerous K-12 classroom resources for science, social studies, nutrition, and Career and Technical Education.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy @ Utah State University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Weaving Together Native American Studies and Agriculture Education in Grades 3 to 5
Explore hands-on lesson ideas that weave together Native American studies and agriculture education. Typically, Native American studies curricula in social studies are examined in past tense. The workshop would be centered on changing the narrative to present tense when teaching about Native Americans and honoring Native American cultures and traditions in regard to agriculture. Additionally, participants learn about current agriculture projects in Native American communities that can be used as resources for teachers. The workshop is aligned with the National Agricultural Literacy Outcomes and the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Browning Neddeau
Email:
bneddeau@csumb.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
California
Main Phone:
(408) 582-4042
Biosketch:
Browning Neddeau, M.A., Ed.D. is an Assistant Professor of Education in the Liberal Studies Department at California State University, Monterey Bay. Browning’s research is centered on arts education, agricultural education, and Native American culturally-appropriate representation in schools. In addition to his work at the university, Browning leads professional development and builds partnerships in arts, agriculture, education, and Native American communities. He has been engaged with work in curricular alignment and presentations with the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom since 2011. Prior to being a full-time university faculty member, Browning was a full-time elementary school classroom teacher where he spent the majority of his time as a fourth-grade teacher.
Organization/Affiliation:
California State University, Monterey Bay
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Turkey Extravaganza
Looking for engaging seasonal activities for all grade levels? With 88 million Americans consuming turkey for Thanksgiving, teaching students about turkey production in the fall is a clear connection. Attendees will experience hands-on lessons and activities that relate to turkey production. Details will also be shared about the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Presidential Turkey Flock event using a virtual field trip, partnership with Minnesota Turkey Growers, turkey teacher resources and more.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Keri Sidle
Email:
keri.sidle@state.mn.us
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Minnesota
Main Phone:
6512016260
Biosketch:
Keri Sidle is a native of Jacksonville, Florida. She discovered her passion for agricultural education while serving as an Ambassador for the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Florida. She helped open two new agricultural education programs at public schools both in suburban areas during her 6 years of teaching. Keri relocated to Minnesota in 2014 and joined Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom in 2016.
Organization/Affiliation:
Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom
Sue Knott
Email:
sue.knott@state.mn.us
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Minnesota
Main Phone:
6512016486
Biosketch:
Sue Knott's agriculture roots were established on her family's farm in southwestern Minnesota. Experiences in 4-H, FFA and helping raise crops and livestock inspired her to earn a degree in agricultural education from the University of Minnesota. She taught high school agriculture classes for nine years before joining the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom team as Education Specialist. In this role, Sue enjoys providing professional development that empowers educators to integrate agriculture into their classroom and curricula.
Organization/Affiliation:
Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
AgBots: Kids Programming for the Future
Autonomous robots have entered the field of agriculture, helping farmers meet the pressure to feed more people. Come see junior bots in action, programmed and built by elementary students to perform tasks that can prepare them for future careers. Programming requires collaboration, perseverance, critical and creative thinking as students work through the engineering process to meet a challenge – all skills useful in academics and the real world. See the fun and rewards these students have experienced. Learn how your students can be a part of this program, and how agriculture can be exciting and high-tech!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Johnnie Keel
Email:
jkeel@norman.k12.ok.us
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
4057779445
Biosketch:
Truman Elementary/Norman Public Schools, jkeel@norman.k12.ok.us; Johnnie Keel is a graduate from the University of Oklahoma and has been a National Board Certified Teacher since 1999. She is the Gifted Resource Coordinator for third, fourth, and fifth graders at Truman Elementary in Norman, Oklahoma. Johnnie provides weekly enrichments for over 120 students, and teaches two advanced math classes. She also provides school wide enrichments including an annual AG Day. Johnnie is an out of the box thinker and an avid grant writer. She loves teaching her students AITC lessons and has presented at the State AITC conference for several years. Johnnie started the Junior Botball program at her school in 2015 and started GLAMS in 2018. She was the 2018 Oklahoma Ag Teacher of the Year and was one of the 2019 recipients of the National Excellence in Teaching Agriculture Award.
Organization/Affiliation:
Truman Elementary
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
It's All in the Family - Wheat Genetics Lesson plan
Modeling of 'It's all in the Family', this wheat genetics lesson plan has students comparing and contrasting three wild wheat parent varieties of bread wheat and hard red winter wheat they will germinate seeds, grow seedlings, and complete a "chromosome squash" activity to stain chromosomes of wild wheat parents as well as bread wheat.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Ruth Hutson
Email:
rhutson@usd384.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Kansas
Main Phone:
785-293-5256
Biosketch:
High School Science/Biology Teacher at Blue Valley High School, Randolph, Kansas. Experience with NSF grant lesson plan writing and pilot testing.
Organization/Affiliation:
Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom
Carrie Newdigger
Email:
newdiggerc@usd351.com
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Kansas
Main Phone:
6203482475
Biosketch:
Carrie is an experienced High School Science teacher with super creative skills that engage her students in science exploration.
Organization/Affiliation:
Macksville High School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
FoodCorps: Connect Kids to Healthy Food in School
Together with communities, FoodCorps serves to connect kids to healthy foods in school. With over 200 AmeriCorps service members, FoodCorps has a presence in eighteen states across the country. In the schools that FoodCorps serves, 75 percent has a measurably healthier school food environment by the end of the year. This workshop will be an introduction to FoodCorps, and will be modeling a hands on lesson anyone can teach. A native Maine FoodCorps service member will be using the subjects of science and nutrition to lead the workshop. It will be focused on grades 3-5 with extensions for grades 6-8.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jared Grenier
Email:
Jared.grenier@foodcorps.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
2073141373
Biosketch:
Jared Grenier is a FoodCorps AmeriCorps service member in Waldoboro Maine. He has a degree in kinesiology and physical education with a focus on health education, and he is empowered to teach how health, PE, agriculture, gardening, and nutrition all go hand in hand. Before serving in FoodCorps, he held several positions for Maine Agriculture in the Classroom, which has provided him with excellent experience of how to successfully implement a food education program. He was raised in Albion, Maine and is excited to be part of growing ag education in this state and around the country. The potent information he will offer has use in any teachers tool belt, and Jared is happy to share at this distinct opportunity.
Organization/Affiliation:
FoodCorps
Michelle Erhard
Email:
michelle.erhard@foodcorps.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
(603) 781-8913
Biosketch:
Michelle Erhard grew up loving food. She has experienced several landscapes as they relate to the food system, including getting her hands dirty in producing, preparing, distributing, marketing, and educating about food in both rural and urban settings. Michelle is passionate about sharing the value of food and farming with young people and pursues this through her current work with FoodCorps and Maine School Garden Network.
Organization/Affiliation:
FoodCorps
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Buzzing Through a Year of Ag in Kindergarten
Agriculture goes hand in hand with science, as well other subjects. I’d like to share some STEM projects from my classroom. Using a PowerPoint and hands-on materials, participants will journey through a lesson based on the text “From Plant to Seed” using enrichment activities to integrate NGSS and integrate ELA, mathematics, science and ag. Focusing on integration leads to greater student involvement, motivation and retention of content. I will share my Kinder Kicks blog with activities that incorporate agriculture. I am passionate about providing young students with meaningful and rigorous lessons. Participants will create a “Travelers Log” for notes!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Karen Parrino
Email:
karen.parrino@lpsb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
0
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Louisiana
Main Phone:
225-202-8369
Biosketch:
I am Karen K. Parrino. I was honored to be the Louisiana Elementary Ag in the Classroom Teacher for 2017. I am an L.S.U graduate with a Master’s + 30 and a Teacher Leader Endorsement, as well as a Reading Specialist. I have 27 years’ experience in early childhood education. In addition, I am a National Board-Certified Teacher. I am passionate about integrating science and agriculture into the curriculum and providing young students with engaging, hands-on and meaningful experiences. I was the Louisiana Science Teacher's Association's 2016 Elementary Science Teacher of the Year. I recently served as a member of Louisiana’s Science Standards Elementary work group and Science Standards Steering Committee for the state of La. I present on a district, state and national level and I LOVE teaching Kindergarten!
Organization/Affiliation:
Livingston Parish Public Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Innovation in Agriculture – Then & Now
The telephones and cars around when your student’s grandparents were kids are a lot different than the ones we use today. Farming has changed a lot too, but they may not realize it. In this fast-pace session we will look at how specific aspects of agriculture, from raising pigs to harvesting corn, have changed over time. Participants will leave with lessons and resources they can use to help students explore these changes in social studies lessons and STEM lessons.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Cindy Hall
Email:
chall@iowaagliteracy.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Iowa
Main Phone:
515-331-4183
Biosketch:
Cindy Hall is the education program manager for the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation. There she has helped build strong programs and resources, focusing on agriculture connections to STEM and social studies. Before coming to IALF, Cindy served as the Agriculture in the Classroom program director for Polk County Farm Bureau. Cindy grew up on a family farm in Southeast Iowa and attended Iowa State University and the University of Delaware.
Organization/Affiliation:
Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Ag in the Classroom: A Win for All
This presentation will focus on methods and models of integrating STEM subjects and agricultural topics in the elementary school setting. One model is the Cluster School model of agricultural integration which we titled- Ag in the Classroom. We have created a partnership where our high school students teach our elementary students according to our state Science and Math standards, all while tying in STEM and agricultural education concepts into the lesson. Another piece of the presentation will focus on the use of an agricultural pathway to obtain our STEM certification.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jennifer Carroll
Email:
jenniferm.carroll@carrollcountyschools.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Georgia
Main Phone:
770-328-1690
Biosketch:
Jennifer Carroll is a Gifted Educator and STEM Coordinator in Carroll County, Georgia. While teaching for more than 20 years, she has developed a passion for STEM Education and grant writing. She enjoys working with others to develop plans that encompass agricultural education in the elementary school setting. She has been honored as the Teacher of the Year at Roopville Elementary School, and is a member of the National Science Teacher Association and PAGE of Georgia. Additionally, Mrs. Carroll has worked on the state level team to write curriculum for elementary agriculture for the state of Georgia.
Organization/Affiliation:
Roopville Elementary School/Carroll County Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Fabulous Agriculture Websites for You and ME!
Ever wonder why those tasty cranberries are harvested in bogs? What is a bog anyway? Need some ideas for how to turn your students into citizen scientists? Would you like to use yoga to teach your students the parts of a plant? Come discover incredible new online agriculture resources which will inspire you and stimulate your students. We will investigate many intriguing websites by looking at online resources you probably never knew were there and cover a wide range of agricultural topics that you can take home to invigorate your lessons and support activities. Detailed resource list provided.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Pam Hosimer
Email:
phosimer@verizon.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
0
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maryland
Main Phone:
301-367-4874
Biosketch:
Pam Hosimer received her Master of Library and Information Science degree, as a special librarian concentrating on agricultural and environmental topics, from the University of Maryland, College Park. She has presented at local, state and national conferences as a volunteer for Extension since becoming a Master Gardener in 2008 and an original member of the Statewide Grow It, Eat It program formed in 2009. Formerly a special education teacher in the public school system, Pam had previously worked with Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation developing farm-based curriculum for Maryland middle school students. Passionate about growing food and teaching where food comes from Pam ties together her experience as an educator, gardener and librarian by utilizing a multimedia approach with students in the classroom and the garden. In her free time Pam likes to visit gardens and farms, volunteer in the community, read mystery books, drink tea, meet new people and travel.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Maryland Extension Master Gardener
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Food Labels - Fact and Fiction
Organic, sustainable, local, free range, cage free, grass fed, vegan, fresh, gluten free, cholesterol free ... in today's world there are many labels that are put on our food and they are not as straight forward as you may be lead to believe. Help your students to develop a better understanding of the different forms of agriculture as well as read and comprehend food labeling. Knowing what different labeling means will allow consumers to make more educated decisions in purchasing food products and encourage agriculturalists to develop more meaningful marketing plans.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Holly Partridge
Email:
hpartridge@gvboces.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
New York
Main Phone:
585-344-7711 ext 2101
Biosketch:
Currently, Holly Teaches Animal Science at Genesee Valley Educational Partnership where the curriculum focuses on Dog Grooming, Small Animals, Small Ruminants, Poultry and career development. As co-adviser of the FFA she gears all instruction towards leadership and employability skills. Real life experiences and teachable moments provide the learning environment for her students. As a certified agriculture teacher and daughter of a veterinarian, past dairy farmer, dog breeder, shepherd and past board member of the American Teeswater Association Holly brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her interest in the farm to table movement stimulated the research for this presentation. If we are what we eat we need to know what we are eating.
Organization/Affiliation:
Genesee Valley Educational Partnership
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Food Evolution: Facts Not Fear, Watch and Decide for Yourself
The film ‘Food Evolution’ is set amidst a brutally polarized debate marked by fear, distrust and confusion: the controversy surrounding GMOs and food. Traveling from Hawaiian papaya groves, to banana farms in Uganda to the cornfields of Iowa, Food Evolution wrestles with the emotions and the evidence driving one of the most heated arguments of our time. Enlisting experts and icons of the struggle such as Mark Lynas, Alison Van Eenennaam, Jeffrey Smith, Andrew Kimbrell, Vandana Shiva, Robert Fraley, Marion Nestle and Bill Nye, as well as farmers and scientists from around the world, this bold and necessary documentary separates the hype from the science to unravel the debate around food. The film is narrated by esteemed science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Laurie Schneider
Email:
lschneider@usfraonline.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Missouri
Main Phone:
636-449-5047
Organization/Affiliation:
U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Connecting Our Youngest to the Table
We will focus on how to incorporate farm connections into the everyday classroom curriculum of our youngest humans. Young children are natural explorers who are so curious about the world around them and thrive off of consistent supportive exposure to new topics. We will spend some time looking at a meal time and how we can add depth to the experience through hands on experiences that touch upon many fun learning possibilities.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jed Norris
Email:
jnorris@shelburnefarms.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Vermont
Main Phone:
8029850309
Biosketch:
I have been working in early childhood settings for 15 years and have used my own personal connections to farming and food as an inspiration to how to embed this work into the natural flow of an early childhood classroom from infants and older.
Organization/Affiliation:
Shelburne Farms
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Introducing Marine Science
Explore hands-on, research-based activities designed to introduce elementary students to the world of aquaculture and how it connects to their everyday lives. We will share two curriculum, grades K-2 and grades 3-5, around these exciting topics. Middle and high school units will also be available. All lessons are aligned with NGSS and we will provide free copies for educators during the session.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Sarah Sparks
Email:
sarah.sparks@maine.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207-353-5550
Biosketch:
Sarah Sparks works with University of Maine 4-H Science statewide. 4-H conducts non-formal education through facilitated learning and inquiry to encourage life skill development. 4-H uses science as content for delivering of positive youth development. 4-H staff, volunteers and 4-H members uses experiential and inquiry based learning. 4-H Science occurs in a variety of settings, including school enrichment, afterschool programming, and 4-H clubs. Sarah serves on the Maine Agriculture in the Classroom Council.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Laurie Bragg
Email:
laurie.bragg@maine.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
581-2295
Biosketch:
Laurie Bragg is the Outreach and Program Manager for ME EPSCoR at the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. SEANET is a National Science Foundation Funded project to build a network of interdisciplinary researchers along the coast of Maine to help advance sustainable ecological aquaculture (SEA) and support marine STEM sciences in Maine’s K-12 curricula. Laurie's role is to connect researchers, faculty, educators and students with STEM related opportunities and experiences.
Organization/Affiliation:
Maine EPSCoR
Carla Scocchi
Email:
carla.scocchi@maine.edu
Speaker Order:
3
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207.667.8212
Biosketch:
Carla is a 4-H professional with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. Carla is a master science teacher in physical and life sciences, with a background in experiential and outdoor education. Her work experience includes a tenure at Sea Education Association (SEA Semester) in Woods Hole, MA, where she taught oceanography, nautical science, maritime history, and leadership at the undergraduate and high school level while at sea aboard sailing school vessels. She went on to become the Director of the Science Program at the Boothbay Sea & Science Center in East Boothbay, Maine, where she helped develop and implement affordable community sailing and marine science programs for children ages 5-17.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Maine Cooperative Extension
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Crazy about Cotton: From Field to Fabric
In this workshop, participants will learn all about cotton - planting it, picking it, ginning it and weaving it into fibers and they will end with their own “woven” product. This workshop will be 100 percent hands-on, and will include a math activity.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Amy Parrott
Email:
aparrott@ag.arizona.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Arizona
Main Phone:
928-726-3904
Biosketch:
Amy M Parrott is a 4-H Youth Development Agent in Yuma, Arizona where she has worked since 2001. Yuma is an agriculture community that is known as the Winter Lettuce Capitol of the world and where most of the leafy greens during the summer months come from. She loves working with young people and increasing their appreciation for living in an Ag community. The best part of her job is that she learns something new every day!
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Arizona
Tracey Waters
Email:
twaters@email.arizona.edu
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Arizona
Main Phone:
928-726-3904
Biosketch:
Tracey Waters is an Instructional Specialist for the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension in Yuma, Arizona. She works with the 4-H SWAG (SouthWest Ag for Kids) program, which educates elementary aged children about various aspects of agriculture. She has worked in the agriculture industry for the past 10 years and enjoys learning about all it encompasses. She is passionate about preparing hands on lessons that will bring agriculture to life in a fun and engaging manner. She believes the importance of a positive impact that will feed a child’s curiosity to learn more. What makes her job so fulfilling is being a witness to the excitement children have while learning about agriculture.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Arizona
Marlena Parrott
Email:
marlenap@ag.arizona.edu
Speaker Order:
3
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Arizona
Main Phone:
9287263904
Biosketch:
Marlena Parrott is a Program Coordinator with the University of Arizona 4-H Youth Development Program in Yuma, Arizona. She works primarily with volunteers in the traditional 4-H program and also school enrichment programs. Without the many volunteers that give selflessly of their time and energy - the program would not be the same. The best part of her job is working with and watching young people grow into strong, confident leaders that truly are making a difference in their community.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Arizona
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Discovering Ag in YOUR State
Discover what agricultural commodities YOUR state has to offer. Participants will construct ag discovery boxes showcasing the different ag commodities your great state has to offer. Learn about Oklahoma agriculture and how to tie this activity specifically to your own state. It's a hands-on approach to teaching commodity maps.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Debra Wood
Email:
debra.wood@edmondschools.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
405-620-1806
Biosketch:
Debra Wood is an experienced elementary teacher from the Edmond Public Schools in central Oklahoma where she teaches Gifted and Talented. Debra has been an active Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom teacher and has presented numerous times at the local, state, and national level. She was the 2014 Luther District Teacher of the Year, the 2017 Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year and 2019 Oklahoma Elementary Science Teacher of the Year. Debra uses a very interactive classroom environment and promotes a project based teaching style.
Organization/Affiliation:
Edmond Public Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
HallGROWS- Growing Real Opportunities With Students
“HallGROWS” (Growing Real Opportunities With Students) is our AITC program established in 2016. In just one year we have reached 2100 students in 21 elementary schools. We want to share our marketing and connection strategies on how you can keep your program growing. Our newest addition to “HallGROWS” is the Forestry Traveling Trunk, in partnership with ABAC’s “Destination Ag”. It is full of lesson plans and activities, a great way to bring AITC all in one package. We will share the contents of the trunk, how to successfully use it in the classroom, and conduct an activity or two.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Justine Palmer
Email:
jmpalmer@gfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Georgia
Main Phone:
706-348-3043
Biosketch:
Justine Palmer is on fire for Ag in the Classroom. She is new to Farm Bureau, but in the first year of implementing AITC in her County’s school system she was able to get in 21 of the 27 schools in their school system, reaching over 2,100 students. This was all made possible because of the marketing, planning, coordination of volunteers and energy she has brought to her local Farm Bureau chapter. She works tirelessly to educate youth, adults and legislators on the importance of agriculture. Hall County has received first time district program awards and national recognition on the floor of the US House of Representatives for their accomplishments this year with their “HallGROWS” AITC program.
Organization/Affiliation:
Hall County Farm Bureau
Caroline Lewallen
Email:
caroline@jaemorfarms.com
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Georgia
Main Phone:
706-248-3402
Biosketch:
As the Agritourism and Marketing Coordinator for Jaemor Farms, Caroline Lewallen is responsible for coordinating Jaemor’s school field trip and food safety programs in addition to being the farm’s voice on two social media platforms. A graduate of both the University of Georgia and Texas A&M in agricultural education and communications, her passion for teaching and sharing with consumers about their food make an enthusiastic volunteer for Ag in the Classroom. Caroline’s relationships with local school systems helped pave a way to introduce HallGROWS to 20 of 27 local elementary schools in year one of the program.
Organization/Affiliation:
Hall County Farm Bureau Young Farmer Chair
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Fiber, Friend or Foe?
Preparing science labs of various fiber types to determine historical use, and present value of different fiber markets. This will include time to create materials (fibers), as well as answer why they are created and still around.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Katie Feinauer
Email:
katiefeinauer@yahoo.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oregon
Main Phone:
541-892-0958
Biosketch:
As a graduate of 4-H, and volunteer leader now, Katie Feinauer has spent years learning about various facets of agriculture. Her duties now are to teach youth about various parts of agriculture through Agri-Camp USA as well as Jefferson State Shooting Association Youth Club. Her goal is to provide an outside resource camp for youth of all ages to participate and learn how agriculture impacts their lives.
Organization/Affiliation:
Agri-Camp USA
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
GMO Decisions
How do we best teach the topic of GMOs? With a solutions-oriented approach! Expose learners to modern agriculture issues like herbicide use, world hunger, food waste, malnutrition, climate change, and more. Ask how scientific solutions and GMOs can help address these issues. Understanding GMOs can remove the fear.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Will Fett
Email:
wfett@iowaagliteracy.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Iowa
Main Phone:
515-331-4182
Biosketch:
Will Fett is the Executive Director of the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation. He previously worked for the National FFA Foundation in Indianapolis, and prior to that was an agricultural educator in Montana. He directs and facilitates the Ag in the Classroom program. In this position, he builds partnerships with Iowa agribusiness and individuals to fund the programs and is responsible for the marketing, public relations, and the strategic plan of the organization.
Organization/Affiliation:
Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Cultivating a Curriculum through Community
Learn how the 4-H Education Center at Auerfarm partners with schools to deliver on farm programming to over 13,000 children visitors a year. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in the hands on materials used on the farm during various lessons. The farm partners with two local schools for regular visits (>65/year). This allows for deep agriculture learning in the context of the school's curriculum as well.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jen Cushman
Email:
jennifer.cushman@uconn.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Connecticut
Main Phone:
860-570-9074
Biosketch:
Jen Cushman is a faculty member at the University of Connecticut in the Department of Extension where she serves as the 4-H Extension Educator for Hartford County. In this role Jen serves over 15,000 4-H participants annually through her work with 4-H clubs, the 4-H Education Center at Auerfarm, Hartford County 4-H Camp, CT 4-H Goat Program and 4-H Fair Association. Jen also serves as a CT Agriculture Education Foundation Board Member. Jen holds a Bachelor's in animal science, Master's in Curriculum and Instruction and a 6th year in Educational Leadership from UConn.
Organization/Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Beth Bye
Email:
Bethbye@auerfarm.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Connecticut
Main Phone:
860-242-7144
Biosketch:
Beth Bye is the Executive Director at Auerfarm. She has worked in the early childhood education field since 1980 and has expertise in the area of early childhood education and pedagogy. Beth has instrumental in developing a farm magnet theme at the Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School.
Organization/Affiliation:
4-H Education Center at Auerfarm
Haley Ryan
Email:
Haleyrryan@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
3
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Connecticut
Main Phone:
860-769-5510
Biosketch:
Haley Ryan received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Child Study at the University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, Connecticut. Haley is a preschool teacher at the Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School in Bloomfield, Connecticut. She works with her school community to create natural spaces for children to connect, wonder, and learn. Haley works in partnership with the 4-H Education Center at Auerfarm in Bloomfield. Students of Wintonbury visit Auerfarm for a learning experience every three weeks during the school year. Last year Haley created a series of farm lesson videos for the school community to utilize to provoke inquiry before the farm visits. Haley is passionate about deepening children’s learning through their connection with nature.
Organization/Affiliation:
Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School
Irene Garneau
Email:
Irene_garneau@whps.org
Speaker Order:
4
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Connecticut
Main Phone:
860-929-5552
Biosketch:
Irene Garneau is currently the department supervisor for Early Childhood Education for West Hartford Public Schools. She previously has served as an early childhood instructional coach at the Wintonbury Early Childhood Magnet School in Bloomfield, has been a program director at The School for Young Children on Asylum Hill, a preschool teacher with CREC, and a teacher and program coordinator at the Beatrice Fox Auerbach Early Childhood Center. She has a Bachelor’s degree in human development/family relations from UConn and a graduate degree in early childhood education/special education from St. Joseph College.
Organization/Affiliation:
West Hartford Public Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Kelp in the Classroom – Engaging Students through Seaweed Aquaculture
Through the study of seaweed aquaculture, we engage K-5 students in place-based, hands-on learning activities. The Kelp ME ASAP (After School Aquaculture Program) curriculum is designed to be used in both formal and informal educational settings and is aligned with standards. In this session, participants will experience a number of seaweed lesson plans including seaweed anatomy and habitat, water quality monitoring, kelp aquaculture gear, and cooking with kelp. We will share resources such as books, aquaculture curricula, film and information on accessing technical assistance for aquaculture projects. Be ready to get your hands on some seaweed!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Marci Train
Email:
marcitrain@msln.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207 712-3258
Biosketch:
Marci Train lives on Long Island, Maine and teaches Grades 3-5 in the two-room island school. She has been teaching for 24 years. Marci holds a Bachelor's from the University of Maine and a Master's from the University of Southern Maine. She teaches aquaculture education because it is a place-based learning opportunity that allows her students to explore different ways of using the ocean, now and in the future.
Organization/Affiliation:
Long Island Elementary School
Yvonne Thomas
Email:
ythomas@islandinstitute.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
3
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Presenter 2
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207-701-1537
Biosketch:
As a Community Development Officer and Education Specialist at the Island Institute, Yvonne works closely with Maine's island and coastal schools to develop and implement education programs that address their unique educational challenges and opportunities. Yvonne holds a Bachelor's from Connecticut College and a Master's from Lesley University. She has 20 years of experience working as a school counselor in island schools. She lives on the island of Vinalhaven.
Organization/Affiliation:
Island Institute
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Ag is OK for ME on Land & Sea: Discover Inland Waterways'
Discover how inland and intracoastal waterways impact agricultural exports and imports. Did you know that 73 percent of ag exports and 65 percent of ag imports travel US waterways? These waterways serve 41 states. Use STEM to create your own barge, learn how locks and dams operate and how to build your own model, and discover the main agriculture commodities that are shipped on waterways. Hands-on workshop will have you creating, measuring, calculating, competing and exploring. Who can build the best barge to haul agriculture commodities?? Come compete and see if your ideas will float or sink!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Audrey Harmon
Email:
audrey.harmon@ag.ok.gov
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
405-740-0160
Biosketch:
Audrey Harmon is an Ag in the Classroom (AITC) state coordinator with 13 years teaching experience. In 2009, she was the Oklahoma AITC TOY and in 2010 she won the National Excellence in Teaching Agriculture award. Audrey has been a state AITC coordinator for six years.
Organization/Affiliation:
Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom
Cheri Long
Email:
Cheri.long@ag.ok.gov
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
3
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
405-249-9234
Biosketch:
Cheri Long is an Ag in the Classroom (AITC) state coordinator. Previously, Cheri taught T1 and Library Media and was named Oklahoma AITC TOY. Cheri has also completed the Oklahoma Ag Leadersip Program.
Organization/Affiliation:
Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom
Melody Aufill
Email:
melody.aufill@ag.ok.gov
Speaker Order:
3
Author Order:
3
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
405-795-0121
Biosketch:
Melody Claborn Aufill received a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. Melody has spent the last 20 years as an elementary classroom teacher and instructional coach and consultant. In 2008, she gained National Board Certified Teacher status as a Middle Child Generalist and is also a certified local LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) trainer. She is now an Oklahoma AITC State Coordinator.
Organization/Affiliation:
Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Fun with Plants!
Even if you don't have a green thumb, come experience lessons that integrate plants into core and elective subjects from elementary school through high school. All lessons are hands-on, fun, and can be done on a shoestring budget! Leave with finished products, ideas, and a resource list of ways to integrate plant science into your classroom curricula. Fast lessons, semester-long projects, indoors or outdoors, with or without a garden, we'll cover ways to make sure plants get the attention they deserve!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Shelley Mitchell
Email:
shelley.mitchell@okstate.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
4057445755
Biosketch:
Shelley Mitchell has nine years of experience teaching high school science, and 12 years of experience in Extension, specializing in youth horticulture. With degrees in Biology, Animal Science, Environmental Science, and Health, she shows how to integrate concepts into curricula using themes, primarily agriculture. A firm believer in active learning, Shelley's methods of teaching incorporate hands-on, experiential lessons to engage learners of all types. She specializes in finding fun activities with and about plants that demonstrate concepts in all core and elective subjects, can be implemented by people with little knowledge of plants, and can be done for little to no cost. She has presented at local, state, regional and national conferences, and is the recipient of the American Horticulture Society's Jane L. Taylor Award for inspiring future horticulturists through her efforts in youth gardening. Her hobbies include horseback riding, geocaching, and taking nature walks.
Organization/Affiliation:
OSU Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Resources to Grow
Take a deep-dive on how to use selected hands-on resources for teaching soils, seeds, DNA, cotton, wool and more that are linked to the National Agricultural Literacy Curriculum Matrix lessons. The kits shared may be replicated locally (material lists will be provided), or ordered for immediate use.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Alisha Hill
Email:
alisha.hill@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-797-0765
Biosketch:
Alisha Hill is the resource coordinator and developer for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy. She is responsible for linking instructional resources on the National Agricultural Literacy Curriculum Matrix with hands-on “resources on the grow” at agclassroomstore.com.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy; Utah State University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
From "STEM" to Plate, 'Cruisin for a Bruisin'
Participants will become food packaging specialists and learn that product packaging is a balance between function, food safety, and economics. From development to design and evaluation, participants work in groups to create the best packaging for shipping an agricultural commodity.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Judy Culbertson
Email:
Judy@learnaboutag.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
California
Main Phone:
9165615625
Biosketch:
Judy Culbertson, Executive Director of California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, grew up on a fifth generation pear orchard in Courtland, a small town just outside of Sacramento. Judy attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business. Judy has been with Ag in the Classroom for more than 30 years and strives to teach California students and teachers where their food and fiber comes from.
Organization/Affiliation:
California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Spice It Up!
Learn how to 'Spice Up' your classroom by integrating herbs and aromatherapy. Join Florida Agriculture in the Classroom as they present their “Spice It Up” lesson plan that explores sensory information, various cultures and how to put your herb garden to use! Test your herb identification and make your own homemade tea blend during this workshop session. Each participant will leave with a copy of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom’s book Gardening for Nutrition and the “Spice It Up” lesson plan.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Tracee Schiebel
Email:
SCHIEBEL@AGTAG.ORG
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
3528461391
Biosketch:
Tracee Schiebel joined Florida Agriculture in the Classroom at their Education Program Manager in June 2017. Tracee has a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business Management from State University of New York at Cobleskill and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida. Before joining FAITC, Tracee was a HungerU member, traveling the country educating students about agricultural solutions to hunger, as well as substitute teaching when not traveling. Before attending college Tracee was a New York FFA state officer.
Organization/Affiliation:
Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.
Becky Sponholtz
Email:
sponholtz@agtag.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
352-846-1391
Biosketch:
Becky Sponholtz is the Executive Director of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc., a post she has held since February 2017. Before that, she served as FAITC's Education Program Manager. Before that, she was a middle and high school agri-science instructor and FFA advisor for nine years. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and her Master of Agriculture from Auburn University. She is married to Corbin Sponholtz and has a son, Landon and daughter, Chandlee.
Organization/Affiliation:
Florida Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc.
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Learn to Develop Engaging STEM Lessons in Less Than 60 Minutes
On the Northeast coast of South America, a creature is lurking in the sugarcane and corn fields. This creature is causing all types of havoc for farmers and agronomists- but what could it be? Join Monsanto Co. to learn how engineers and scientists work together to solve for some of the most complicated challenges in agriculture. This session is for educators of any grade level. The instructor will help show you how to take any challenge culturally relevant to your area and turn it into an engineering based lesson. Here’s the great news: It will cost you $5 maximum in consumables. Bring your engineering skills and don’t be afraid to fail during this exercise.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Valerie Bayes
Email:
valerie.n.bayes@monsanto.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Missouri
Main Phone:
314-478-8359
Biosketch:
'I don’t know all the answers- that’s why I keep asking questions.' Tangible learner. Dangerously curious. Valerie Bayes holds a degree in Biological Sciences from University of Missouri-Columbia and a Master's Degree from Lindenwood University in Teaching with certification in secondary biology. She serves as Monsanto’s STEM Engagement Lead in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up Valerie often found her curiosity getting her into trouble. From building treehouses out of recycled materials to jumping off the roof with an umbrella – asking “why” and “how” she has always been the curious type asking about phenomena and testing hypothesis. She is a strong advocate for the scientific method. Her work focuses on creating authentic agricultural experiences demonstrating the sophistication and integral nature of STEM through agriculture.
Organization/Affiliation:
Monsanto Company
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Developing a Growth Mind Set in the Garden
This presentation will center around school gardening and the many layers of connections to state standards. Learn how to use the school garden as the center of outstanding instruction. Partnerships will be shared and discussed that has expanded the scope of the gardens at two schools in Tennessee to include such agencies as the Boy Scouts, Lowe's, and ALCOA Aluminum. The workshop leaders will model and share the connections, demonstrate outstanding STEM related inquiry based lessons, and provide participants with an extensive list of lesson plans, ideas, and other goodies to take back to the classroom for immediate use.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Tanna Nicely
Email:
tbnicely@yahoo.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Tennessee
Main Phone:
865-919-3193
Biosketch:
Tanna grew up on a beef cattle/ tobacco farm in Mascot TN. A graduate of the University of TN, Tanna received her doctorate in leadership from East TN State University and teaches atJohnson University. She has been in education for over 29 years and now serves as an elementary principal in the Knoxville. She also works as an educational consultant for the TAITC. Tanna has served on the TN Science Teachers Association board and has presented at a variety of workshops including the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, National Staff Development Conference, and the National AITC Conference. Her passions for farming and agriculture garnered her a White/Reinhardt scholarship, a Presidential Award in Science, and a visit to the White House. Tanna lives on Sycamore Farms with her husband Brad. She is now a proud Granna to Norah Beth and Dawson and soon to be two more cowgirls!
Organization/Affiliation:
Knox County Schools and TN Foundation for AG in the Classroom
Angela Bright
Email:
brighta@loudoncounty.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Tennessee
Main Phone:
865-466-6400
Organization/Affiliation:
Loudon County Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Cracking the Code on Egg Production, Marketing
Learn how photoperiodism affects chickens’ and other plant’s and animal’s egg laying habits, and how the cost of eggs in the grocery store is impacted by this phenomena. In addition, learn what ‘free range,’ ‘full range’ and ‘organic’ eggs mean in this workshop that will deliver lessons in science and economics for high school students.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Lisa Gaskalla
Email:
Lisa.gaskalla@naitco.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
352-745-0246
Biosketch:
Lisa Gaskalla is executive director of National Agriculture in the Classroom, a post she has held since January 2017. Before that, she worked as executive director of Florida Agriculture in the Classroom for 13 years, as executive director of Polk County Farm Bureau for four years and public relations manager for Florida Citrus Mutual. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Florida and worked as a newspaper reporter for 13 years before going to work from the agriculture industry in Florida.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Getting Wild with Maine Wild Blueberries
Have you ever had Maine’s superfruit? Learn about how these little berries have a huge impact on students in Maine and across the country! This workshop will demonstrate how it can be incorporated into the curriculum with health, writing, economics, and art components. Participants will receive the Maine Wild Blueberry Curriculum Resource kit and learn about taste testing in the classroom!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Eric Brooks
Email:
ebrooks@rsu18.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
2074606523
Biosketch:
Eric Brooks is a fifth grade Teacher at Belgrade Central School and grew up working on his family's wild blueberry farm in Maine. He is a strong advocate of Agriculture in the Classroom. Mr. Brooks is a presenter for Maine's Summer Teacher Institute and serves on his district's National Farm to School committee. Mr. Brooks was also a contributing writer for the book, Blueberries for ME used in the Maine Ag in the Classroom “Read Me” Program. He was the first in Maine to pilot the Maine Agriculture Book Barn and was named Maine Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year and received the National White-Reinhardt Literacy Award in 2017.
Organization/Affiliation:
RSU 18: Belgrade Central School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Dig It: Writing in School Gardens
This workshop begins with an overview of writing in school gardens followed by an interactive activity that will help participants develop writing assignments for their home institutions. These assignments use ecological approaches to literacy to help students improve as writers and to help students develop ecological community literacies--which means understanding their plant, animal, and human neighbors. The workshop will conclude with a discussion of community writing in school gardens as a means of raising awareness of the importance of agricultural education.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Stephanie Wade
Email:
swade@bates.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207-505-0948
Biosketch:
Assistant Director of Writing for Natural Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies at Bates College, Dr. Wade has been teaching writing for 20 years. Her work on community literacy and writing in school gardens has been published in the Community Literacy Journal.
Organization/Affiliation:
Bates College
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Let's Raise a Barn!
In this workshop, we will show attendees how to take a project-based activity (STEM) that is agriculturally-centered and incorporate it into the science and writing curriculum. For example, attendees will be given materials to build a model barn for maximum hay storage. Participants would then learn how students can use a science notebook to explain what they did and their thought process for the project. Participants will also learn how to extend this project to a more rigorous level with student inquiry--based exercises using agriculture topics.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Trishalana Shanks
Email:
tshanks@mariesr2.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Missouri
Main Phone:
(573) 578-0948
Biosketch:
I have been in education for over 17 years with experience in Title One, second, third, fifth, and the sixth grades. Having been raised on a cattle farm in Mid-Missouri, agriculture is a passion of mine. This passion continues as my husband and I raise cattle, sheep, and goats on our family farm. I take this passion into my classroom by incorporating agriculture literacy into my curriculum. Additionally, I love sharing agriculture literacy ideas and lessons with other teachers.
Organization/Affiliation:
Maries County R2 Schools
Jennifer Bacon
Email:
jbacon@mariesr2.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
2
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Missouri
Main Phone:
(573) 690-8748
Biosketch:
Jennifer Bacon has been a teacher for more than 20 years. A large part of that time she spent as an Agriculture Education Instructor so agriculture literacy is very important to her. She was raised on a small commercial cattle farm, and continues her passion for agriculture through showing horses and sharing the importance of agriculture with others.
Organization/Affiliation:
Maries County R2 Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
The Bugs Are Breaking In!
“The Bugs Are Breaking In,” is a sharable Next Generation Science Standard teaching tool and interactive platform to educate teachers, students and their families about invasive pest species, particularly the Asian Citrus Psyllid, an insect costing billions of dollars and destroying citrus nationally and globally. This activity creates an immersive experience promoting backyard scientist events encouraging kids to go outside and become the observers and story tellers we need to combat the invasion of the Asian Citrus Psyllid, as more than 50 percent of California homeowners have citrus trees. Workshop includes sharable links and interactive gaming experience.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Julie Cates
Email:
jcates@vusd.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
California
Main Phone:
559-737-0339
Biosketch:
Julie Cates is a sixth grade teacher in the Central Valley of California. Mrs. Cates has a passion for agriculture and nutrition education which she enthusiastically shares with anyone who will listen and all who like to eat! While working as a Nutrition Program Coordinator for the University of California Cooperative Extension, she joined Twitter and followed The Produce Moms. In 2015, Mrs. Cates began enhancing her career in education, she became a classroom teacher. Mrs. Cates knew that she wanted to incorporate nutrition education and food sampling in her weekly projects. She contacted Lori Taylor, founder of The Produce Moms to inquire about using the FindYourFavorite trademark and adding a hashtag and the word Friday for a class campaign. Cates secured a grant from California Ag in the Classroom and earned the title, “Educator of the Year, 2015” for her innovative use of social media, taste tests, farmer visits and agriculture education across English, math, and science curricula.
Organization/Affiliation:
Sixth Grade Teacher, Linwood Elementary, Visalia, California
Amy Downs
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
California
Biosketch:
Amy Downs currently teaches a fifth & sixth grade class at Global Learning Charter School in Visalia, California. She grew up on a farm in Kern County. Amy holds Master’s degrees in Curriculum and Instruction and Elementary Mathematics. She is also a Hapara Certified Trainer and a Google Level 1 educator. Amy Downs was Visalia Unified 2017 Teacher of the Year, and a Tulare County Excellence in Education Educator of the Year.
Organization/Affiliation:
Global Learning Charter School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Month by Month Primary Grades Ag Study
This presentation will focus on the monthly study of an area of agriculture in the primary classroom. The monthly focus (usually two weeks of daily lessons) will change and can be tweaked to meet various state/region products/crops. The use of a "Study Journal" is incorporated to record the learning throughout the year and make connections across topics. Each monthly study will incorporate hands-on learning, strong agriculture-based literature, and opportunities to connect with local experts to enrich the experiences in agriculture of students. Resources used will be shared along with a list of books utilized throughout the year-long curriculum.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Kelly Shannon
Email:
kelly@shannonfamilyfarms.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Indiana
Main Phone:
765-376-2357
Biosketch:
Kelly Shannon is a Kindergarten teacher in rural central Indiana. She has taught 15 years in the K-3. After attending a state Ag in the Classroom Update/Training a few years ago her calling was found in incorporating her love for agriculture into her love for teaching. She began enriching her students' agricultural lives by allowing her students to see and experience the connections between daily life and agriculture. Over the last few years she has worked to develop a monthly Ag Focus for science/social studies and used a notebook to catalog the journey throughout the year. At the end of the year, the student journal is sent home and shared with family in hopes that the learning about the importance of Ag doesn't end with the student, but comes home to the family. In turn, making a small step toward bridging the gap between everyday consumers and farming in America.
Organization/Affiliation:
Sugar Creek Elementary School Teacher - IAITC Volunteer
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Discovering Hydroponics In the Classroom For Beginners
Are you interested in hydroponics in your classroom but feel you don't know enough or have enough funding to get started? This is the session for you! It will be an AGmazing journey of discovery for both you and your students.It is what project-based learning dreams are made of! No experts allowed- the less you know the better!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Traci Curry
Email:
agclass@nmflb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
New Mexico
Main Phone:
505-238-2423
Biosketch:
Traci Curry is the state contact and regional director for New Mexico Ag in the Classroom. She knew since the first grade that she wanted to be an educator. She had the pleasure of teaching first, second, and third graders for 11 years before coming to New Mexico Ag in the Classroom. She continues to work on inspiring students and teachers to rediscover their love of learning through agriculture.
Organization/Affiliation:
NMAITC
Cheryl Butterfield
Email:
agclass1@nmflb.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
New Mexico
Main Phone:
575.799.0102
Biosketch:
Cheryl Butterfield joined New Mexico Ag In The Classroom in 2014, but that was not the beginning of her involvement in agriculture education. She coordinated agriculture education tours for the general public and school groups at the New Mexico State Fair and Eastern New Mexico State Fair for a combined 19 years. Cheryl grew up in northeastern New Mexico in a farming and ranching family. She graduated from New Mexico State University with a Bachelor's in Agriculture Economics and a Master's in Home Economics. Cheryl spent 20 years with the New Mexico Cooperative Extension Service working in 4-H, agriculture and nutrition. She also taught middle school at Ft. Sumner Municipal schools.
Organization/Affiliation:
NM Ag in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Poetry to Grocery - Hurry!
Hurry over, and get excited for an educationally and agriculturally-rich presentation by Illinois AITC. Let us take you on a journey from poetry to grocery as we link bite-able rhymes to the foods you eat. Launch into a great children’s book called The Popcorn Astronauts. Explore national specialty crops through a poetic-lens and leave with student-centered, hands-on activities ready for immediate use.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Amber Arbogast
Email:
aarbogast@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
3095572007
Biosketch:
Amber Arbogast serves as an Education Specialist for Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC). As an Education Specialist, Amber provides agriculture-based educational resources, training and support to educators throughout the state. Through this training and support, IAITC strives to increase agriculture literacy amongst children. Amber has been with IAITC since September 2017. Prior to joining IAITC, she taught Middle School for 10 years. Amber holds a Master’s in Education from the University of Notre Dame and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from DePaul University. She resides in Pontiac, Illinois with family.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Saving the Seeds to Preserve History and Biodiversity
In this workshop, you will discover the magic of saving seeds. You will learn about the project and its correlation to biodiversity and history. The most unique aspect of the program, its historic seed collection will be highlighted. For example, the latest donation will help restore 'Bere' barley to the peninsula of Kintyre in Scotland. At one time this barley, thought to have been introduced to Scotland by the Vikings as early as 900 A.D. was extensively grown but, had since been lost. Additionally, a selection of plants are being grown from the Inca Indians of the Andes region of South America highlighted in the book, "Lost Crop of the Incas".
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Neil Lash
Email:
neil_lash@msad40.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Biosketch:
Neil Lash is co-founder and director of Medomak Valley High School's internationally recognized Heirloom Seed Project. This is the oldest and largest program of its type in North America. Some of their seeds have been sent to the gardens of Monticello and Mount Vernon, as well as gardens and research institutions in many countries across the globe. Neil teaches history through the eyes of seeds. His students learn to grow, save, catalog, research and distribute these rare gems!
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
"Udderly" Creative STEAM Classroom Fun!
Make your STEAM classroom come alive with new technology ideas and fun ways to introduce them to students! Let us provide you with new ways to advance student interest in agriculture technologies with Google Cardboard Virtual Reality Viewers and other smart phone applications. In addition, session participants will be given the opportunity to experience the 2017 4-H National Youth Science Day experiment by creating a wearable, like a FitBit, and learning about various applications for similar wearables in animal agriculture.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Virginia Deitz
Email:
deitzv@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
North Dakota
Main Phone:
701-799-1825
Biosketch:
Virginia (Ginger) Deitz is a retired teacher from Fargo, North Dakota after 41 years of teaching at the elementary level. She continues as an instructor for the Department of Distance and Continuing Education at North Dakota State University, and facilitates Project Food, Land & People Workshops for educators with Jill Vigesaa. She is also a frequent presenter for water festivals across the state, and has a long list of awards for her educational efforts with Project WET. Ginger is a former North Dakota Teacher of the Year, and received a National Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture National Award in 2010.
Organization/Affiliation:
North Dakota Ag in the Classroom
Jill Vigesaa
Email:
jill.vigesaa@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Presenter 2
State:
North Dakota
Main Phone:
701-799-5488
Biosketch:
Jill Vigesaa has worked with North Dakota Soil Conservation Districts as an Education Coordinator for many years. Twenty-eight years ago, Jill developed an award winning series of educational programs called The Regional Environmental Education Series, designed for classroom presentations. This program educates over 30,000 students each year with over 500 presentations. She became involved with Project Food, Land & People, serving on the National Board and facilitating AITC workshops with Ginger Deitz in North Dakota. Ginger and Jill currently facilitate top rated FLP Workshops across the state. Jill was the first recipient of the National Ag Advocate Award.
Organization/Affiliation:
North Dakota Farm Bureau
Lindsey Leker
Email:
lindsey.leker@ndsu.edu
Speaker Order:
3
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
North Dakota
Main Phone:
701-231-7039
Biosketch:
Lindsey Leker is a science specialist for North Dakota State University Extension Service's Center for 4-H Youth Development. She coordinates science programming for youth ages 5 to 18, and the role science plays in their lives, including career development. She is the lead specialist for parts of the 4-H camping program. Her research for her Ph.D. is focusing on achievement gaps among minority groups and females in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects in grade school and high school.
Organization/Affiliation:
NDSU Extension Center for 4-H
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Pollinating Young Minds
Pollinating young minds to create the next generation of environmental stewards. Just like the buzzing of bees, students will be all "a buzz" with learning about the importance of pollinators. Learn about pollinators while making a bee box and also become a pollinator and learn how pollen is carried. Use pasta to demonstrate the life cycle of a butterfly. Come and join me to see what all the BUZZ is about in the world of pollinators.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Donna Musick
Email:
donnam@wcs.k12.va.us
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Virginia
Main Phone:
276-475-5303
Biosketch:
My husband and I live on a beef cattle farm in Southwest Virginia. My undergraduate degrees are from VT in Agriculture and Education K-6 from Virginia Intermont. I received a masters from Tusculum College in elementary education and math with math specialist endorsement from UVA Charlottesville. I teach sixth grade math/science in a rural middle school. I've taught for a total of 22 years. I am an avid supporter of Agriculture in the Classroom and I incorporate agriculture in my lessons as often as possible. I was the 2016 Virginia AITC Teacher of the Year.
Organization/Affiliation:
Science and Math Teacher at Damascus Middle School
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Meat 101: The Meat of the Matter
From ‘Farm To Table’ while incorporating the National Standards for Family and Consumer Science Education competencies as well as well as ELA, Social Studies, Math and Science. Explore beef, pork, chicken and mutton in new and unique way. In addition to regular lessons, we’ll also discuss true consumer choices with animal protein sources as well as marketing myths! A can’t miss session for grades 5-12 and consumers alike!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Laura Vollmer
Email:
lvollmer@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
309-557-3334
Biosketch:
Laura Vollmer serves as an Education Specialist for Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom. As an Education Specialist, Laura helps provide educational resources, training and support related to agriculture for classroom teachers throughout the state. Through this training and support, Ag in the Classroom strives to increase school children’s understanding of their food and fiber system. Laura has been with Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom since January 2012. Prior to her work with Illinois AITC, she taught Pre-K, Kindergarten and fourth Grade. Laura graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She and her husband, Dan, reside in Congerville, Illinois with their twin daughters, Addison and Natalie.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois AITC
Kevin Daugherty
Email:
kdaugherty@ilfb.org
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
3092617334
Biosketch:
Kevin Daugherty is the Education Director for the Illinois AITC Program. And Illinois is the Pumpkin Capital of the U.S. This presentation was meant to be! Daugherty holds a Bachelor's in Secondary Education from the University Illinois and a Master's in Higher Education from Eastern Illinois University. A former Junior High and High School History and English teacher, Daugherty worked for as a implementation and curriculum developer for a publishing company before joining the Illinois Farm Bureau AITC Program in 2000. He is the Illinois AITC Contact, and Post-Chairman of the National Conference Planning Committee. He hosted National Conferences in 2001 in Chicago, and 2008 in St. Louis. Daugherty is married, and has three children. He is active in his church, and serves as the President of the LeRoy CUSD #2 Board of Education in LeRoy, IL.
Organization/Affiliation:
Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Project-Based Learning – It’s How the World of Work Works!
Engage students with realistic problems and model how solutions to problems are solved in the “real-world” by using project-based learning. This presentation will share career and technical education project-based learning plans that include multiple options for cross-disciplinary learning. Explore how to integrate project-based learning (not projects) into your curriculum and prepare students with 21st Century skills.
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Debra Spielmaker
Email:
debra.spielmaker@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
435-213-5562
Biosketch:
Debra Spielmaker is a Professor at Utah State University in the School of Applied Sciences, Education, and Technology. In addition to her faculty role at Utah State University, Debra serves as the Team Leader for the National Center for Agricultural Literacy. Debra taught agricultural science for seven years in Utah and Montana, and directed the Utah Agriculture in the Classroom program for 20 years. She conducts works on program evaluation, student assessment, and has developed numerous K-12 classroom resources for science, social studies, nutrition, and Career and Technical Education.
Organization/Affiliation:
National Center for Agricultural Literacy @ Utah State University
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
InterAGtive Notebooks...Taking Notes Can Be Fun!
How can taking notes be effective and fun for students? Come explore "InterAGtive" notebooks and discover how you can design interactive notes in conjunction with AITC lessons! These notebooks provide a hands-on opportunity for students to creatively take notes and master new concepts through problem solving and inquiry-based learning. Find out how interAGtive notebooks can improve and enhance your 6-12th grade classes!
Workshop Session:
all workshops will be 60 minutes
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Bekka Israelsen
Email:
bekka.israelsen@usu.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Utah
Main Phone:
4357971833
Biosketch:
Bekka Israelsen is the Pre-K—12 Education Specialist for Utah Agriculture in the Classroom. She graduated from Utah State University with a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and a master’s degree in Career and Technical Education. Prior to working for Utah AITC, Bekka spent three years in the classroom as a high school agricultural science teacher and FFA advisor. She now develops elementary and secondary curriculum for Utah teachers, and presents various preservice and inservice workshops statewide.
Organization/Affiliation:
Utah Agriculture in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Flat Aggie's AgMazing Adventures
Flat Aggie has been traveling the country for five years collecting stories from visits to farms and ranches. These AgMazing Adventures are the foundation of a series of lessons designed to fit classrooms grades K-8. With each Adventure, students learn about geography, climate, market access, basic animal and crop care as well as how agriculture affects their every day life. In addition, Flat Aggie gives ag literacy coordinators a ready-made resource to share with teachers and an opportunity to engage with local agribusiness by connecting the food chain from one coast to another.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Katie Pratt
Email:
aitc.leecfb@comcast.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Illinois
Main Phone:
(815) 719-0405
Biosketch:
Katie farms with her family in north central Illinois and serves as the county's ag literacy coordinator. She graduated from Truman State University in Kirksville, MO with a degree in journalism and agriculture economics. Katie invests in her community by serving at church, with the 4-H club, county fair board, county farm bureau, FFA alumni and local hospital board. She routinely meets with consumers, answering their questions and telling her farm story, and encourages other farmers and ranchers to share their stories as well. She blogs at theillinoisfarmgirl.com, and has served as a Face of Farming & Ranching for the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance. Katie believes the key to sharing the farm experience is bringing people to the farm, thus her involvement in the Illinois Harvest Dinner, a new farm to fork style event. Personal connection equals positive relationships furthering the dialogue surrounding farms and food.
Organization/Affiliation:
Lee Co. Ag in the Classroom
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
How to Bring Your Classroom Into The Cafeteria
Engage your cafeteria as an extension of the classroom: Tips, advice and examples of how to work with your Food Service Director to reinforce lessons from your classroom. There is value in collaborating with your school nutrition program to improve menu choices, meal sales and ultimately the number of students making healthy choices in the school cafeteria and maybe at home as well. Work with your FS Director to coordinate your classroom lessons to generate excitement and help kids put their knowledge into action in the lunch line.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Ronald Adams
Email:
radams@wildblueberries.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Point of Contact, Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207-749-2929
Biosketch:
Ron Adams is a consultant for the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine focused on education and promotion for the public school nutrition programs nationwide. Ron was a food service director in public schools and childcare for over 24 years culminating as director of Portland Public Schools overseeing 16 kitchens serving 5,500 meals daily. Under his leadership, Portland Schools spent approximately 35 percent of its food budget on local foods in 2015 including fruits, vegetables, beef, chicken, fish and value added products from regional producers. He is a member of the School Nutrition Association as a credentialed School Nutrition Specialist and is an advocate for the farm to institute movement and food security. He is a co-founder of the board at Full Plates, Full Potential an organization dedicated to eliminating student hunger in Maine. He also is a co-founder and chief operations officer of the Maine Farm and Sea Cooperative.
Organization/Affiliation:
Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Three Classes, One Garden
We will demonstrate and explain how agriculture can be incorporated into three different grade levels using three different subjects. Sixth grade math students are doing Ag Day Friday. They are using math skills to measure and map our garden. In seventh science, groups are researching vegetables and creating presentations using Google Slides to share with their class as well as the sixth and eighth grades. In eighth grade ELA, students are reading and discussing sugarcane and conservation as part of their reading program. They will write journals about their experiences growing plants using the tops and bottoms of plants.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Catherine Olinde
Email:
catherine.olinde@pcpsb.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Louisiana
Main Phone:
2257181810
Biosketch:
Along with my sister, Jo Ann Hebert, we have developed lessons that have enhanced our students' learning experiences. I have been teaching for 21 years. Through my agriculture lessons I have been selected as Louisiana Ag Teacher of the Year in 2014. We continue to include agriculture in our lessons so our students are always aware of how agriculture affects their lives.
Organization/Affiliation:
STEM Magnet Academy
Jo Ann Hebert
Email:
hebertjoann@hotmail.com
Speaker Order:
2
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Presenter 2
State:
Louisiana
Main Phone:
2256373562
Biosketch:
Jo Ann Herbert has been teaching for 21 years with a great co-partner (her sister). They have developed and planned lessons over the past few years that have allowed us to be selected as Louisiana Ag Teacher of the Year and she has been selected as a National Teacher of the Year for Louisiana. Agriculture for ME is an easy resource that allows her to enrich her lessons. Students are more engaging and their love for learning is enhanced through Agriculture in the Classroom.
Organization/Affiliation:
STEM Magnet Academy
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
A Bracelet to Remember!
Let's Make a Bracelet, hands-on activity to remind children about important concepts. A bracelet could be made of the water cycle, a farm, sun, etc. Participants will share ideas and ways they have used bracelets with students and choose material to make and take one home. Directions and relationships will be provided.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Linda Hardee
Email:
spaceteacher@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Alabama
Main Phone:
2566574001
Biosketch:
Linda Hardee is a retired gifted specialist and holds a Master's in Education from the University of South Alabama. She served 3rd-5th graders as a resource teacher. She taught every student in her school (Highlands Elementary) in Grades Pre-K through fifth. Her passions are environment, agriculture and geography.
Organization/Affiliation:
retired school teacher
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Every State Has an "Ag-cent"
Learn how to showcase your state's "Ag-cent," and how the varying and diverse commodities across your state affect daily life. Being from Georgia, I utilized this approach to weave Georgia agriculture into my weekly lessons. Utilizing virtual field trips to "visit" farms, we can offer students an opportunity to explore different geographic regions, learn about different commodities, "meet" and "thank" the farmers that provide, and use their commodities in a hands-on "lab" either through cooking or creating.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Lauren Goble
Email:
ldgoble@gfb.org
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Georgia
Main Phone:
4784562810
Biosketch:
Lauren Goble currently serves as a field representative for the Georgia Farm Bureau Federation. Formerly, she taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, and first grade for eight years in two different school districts. She is a two-time County Teacher of the Year nominee, Georgia Agriculture in the Classroom Teacher of the Year (2015), and a National Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture recipient (2016). She has presented ag-related workshops at the Georgia Farm Bureau Educational Leadership conference, and promotes AITC through workshops, library programs, and teacher trainings in her 16 county Georgia Farm Bureau Region.
Organization/Affiliation:
Georgia Farm Bureau Federation
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
"Toying" with Agriculture
Participants will learn how to add FUN to their Ag in the Classroom curriculum by creating an Ag-version of Jenga. Each participant will leave the session with a mini-version of the game Jenga that incorporates all areas of agriculture.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Debra Wood
Email:
debra.wood@edmondschools.net
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Oklahoma
Main Phone:
405-620-1806
Biosketch:
Debra Wood is an experienced elementary teacher from the Edmond Public Schools in central Oklahoma where she teaches Gifted and Talented. Debra has been an active Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom teacher and has presented numerous times at the local, state, and national level. She was the 2014 Luther District Teacher of the Year, the 2017 Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year and 2019 Oklahoma Elementary Science Teacher of the Year. Debra uses a very interactive classroom environment and promotes a project based teaching style.
Organization/Affiliation:
Edmond Public Schools
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
AgVenture & Beyond
What else can teachers be provided with other than a day-long AgVenture program? Agventure bins provide teachers with several hands on activities which are related to the agriculture stations they will be vising during the day-long program. Many of these activities are connected to children's books provided in the bins. These activities can be used as pre-activities to build knowledge or post-activities used as a follow-up to reinforce what they have learned.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Kristie Popa
Email:
kpopa@ufl.edu
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
1
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Florida
Main Phone:
863-993-4846
Biosketch:
Kristie Popa works as the 4-H Agent in DeSoto County for the University of Florida. Kristie received her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Florida Gulf Coast University and her Master's Degree in Agricultural Education and Communication from the University of Florida. As the 4-H Agent in DeSoto County, Kristie has worked to educate youth about agriculture, health and nutrition and STEM through many different avenues.
Organization/Affiliation:
UF/IFAS DeSoto County 4-H
ABSTRACT INFORMATION
Consider Worms in Your Classroom!
What is Vermiculture? Worm Composting! Classroom scraps can be turned into a powerful soil additive for your potted plants, school garden or lawn. Learn just how a classroom worm bin can teach students about recycling, soil nutrients and so much more! Topics include what is necessary for the worms to thrive, and what is necessary for the worm keeper to survive. Demonstration of the set up and harvesting of worm bins as well as the benefits of worm castings for plants.
Mini-Workshop Session:
activity should be easily demonstrated in 20 minutes and will be repeated 3 times on Friday
Presentation:
This presentation has not yet been uploaded or the speaker has opted not to make the presentation available online.
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
SPEAKER(S) INFORMATION
Jock Robie
Email:
mainelywormbins@gmail.com
Speaker Order:
1
Author Order:
0
Person Type:
Primary Presenter
State:
Maine
Main Phone:
207 831 9920
Biosketch:
I am retired. I was trained and worked my whole career as an engineer in Paper Making Technology. I have been composting with worms for 8 years as a hobby and have shared across the state with teachers, gardeners and folks that just love the science of enriching the soil. Last year I harvested 2200 pounds of castings from my own bins. I started in 2011 giving presentations and workshops to help people who wanted to try vermiculture get started and to assist them for the first year or so with harvesting their worm bin(s). I have supplemented my practical hands on experience with technical reading and attended the Vermiculture Conference at NC State to learn about the latest technical research in this field. I am truly amazed by what I have learned and love to share it.
Organization/Affiliation:
Mainely Worm Bins
