OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — A three-day adventure exploring agricultural venues in western Oklahoma began June 7, 2022, as 53 teachers from across the state loaded a tour bus alongside Ag in the Classroom staff to begin their journey down historic Route 66.
The 2022 road trip was open to all Oklahoma early childhood, elementary, middle school and high school teachers. The Oklahoma Beef Council is the primary sponsor of the annual event.
“The road trip encourages teachers to teach their students about agriculture by providing hands-on learning experiences and real, authentic interactions with actual agricultural producers,” said Annie Davis, AITC state coordinator. “My favorite part of the trip is when teachers have the ‘aha’ moment, realizing how they can use this information with their students and share their future plans with me.”
Western Oklahoma is typically dry during the summer, however the tour group faced torrential rain throughout the three-day period. But, this did not dampen the group’s enthusiasm or excitement.
While on the road trip, teachers had the opportunity to interact with farmers and ranchers specializing in various areas, from no-till cotton to winter wheat, and even bison production. They also visited with multiple livestock auction owners, toured a brand-new custom meat processing facility, learned how to make goat soap, and watched an ultrasound of a steer’s ribeye.
Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell also briefly joined the teachers to thank them for all they do for state and share his views regarding the importance of the ag industry in the economy.
Ag in the Classroom 2022 Teacher of the Year, Teresa Brunnemer from Morrison Elementary, is a veteran attendee of the road trips.
“The road trip is an amazing opportunity for teachers to see the diversity of Oklahoma agriculture,” Brunnemer said. “They are given invaluable experiences to take back to their students about the important role agriculture plays in our everyday lives. The producers are always such gracious and generous hosts. All teachers should take advantage of this opportunity.”
Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom offers over 300 agriculture-based lessons aligned to the Oklahoma Academic Standards. If you are interested in learning more, contact a state coordinator by visiting www.agclassroom.org/
–Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom
