DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation announced today that Governor Kim Reynolds has declared May 14, 2019 as Agricultural Literacy Day in Iowa. This proclamation recognizes the importance of and growth of agricultural literacy and Agriculture in the Classroom efforts across Iowa.
One in five Iowans work in the agricultural industry including production agriculture, agribusiness, marketing, transportation and supporting occupations. Agriculture is a major component of the Iowa economy with more than $26.6 billion in cash farm receipts in 2017. This proclamation recognizes the hard work of those involved in agriculture and agricultural literacy efforts to help all Iowans understand and communicate the source and value of agriculture as it affects daily life.
The Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation (IALF) is the statewide contact for Agriculture in the Classroom efforts. It serves as the central resource for educators and volunteers who want to teach Iowa’s students about agriculture. IALF grew out of earlier agricultural literacy efforts and was officially established on May 14, 2014. It is a joint effort between agricultural commodity organizations, educational groups, agribusinesses and other stakeholders.
“Iowa is a leading producer of agricultural products,” said Will Fett, executive director of the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation and president of the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization. “It is important for everyone to understand the role of agriculture in their everyday life. From food and fiber to animal feed and renewable fuels, we are all impacted by this industry.”
Agriculture in the Classroom programs collaborate with and empower a diverse group of educators and community partners to support a positive message about agriculture. IALF helps provide educational materials to support and supplement Kindergarten through 12th grade curricula and the Iowa Core content standards with connections to agriculture.
IALF and Agriculture in the Classroom efforts include educational programs for children and students, teacher professional development, educator grants, and a number of other programs and activities. These programs and resources are provided to educators and students across Iowa.
For more information about this proclamation or other education activities please contact the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation at info@iowaagliteracy.org.
— Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation
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