March 27, 2023-- This March, farmers from across America came together at the Commodity Classic, America's largest farmer-led agricultural experience. On site was Nourish the Future, a national education initiative developed by science teachers to inspire a network of educators to foster critical thinking, connect students to modern agriculture, and provide sound science-based resources that meet teachers’ and students’ needs in the classroom.

Among those in attendance were Intermediate South teacher and Nourish the Future national teacher leader Jessica Kurtz, as well as district educator and New Jersey Teacher of the Year Christine Girtain.

“Educating our students about the critical need of food sustainability should be an integral part of every teacher’s classroom,” said Kurtz.

Most teachers (and students) are unaware of what is happening in the farming world, despite the fact that farmers are feeding and fueling a growing world. Farmers want and need the public to understand aspects of modern farming, and that the industry needs talent to fill important jobs of the future. Agriculture is a vital partner in engaging students with STEM concepts in ways that directly and indirectly impact their lives. Not only does teaching ag-based curriculum in the science classroom inspire students to solve real-world science issues; reaching students is critical to address the job gap in agriculture-related careers, many of which are going unfilled.

Free farming and agriculture NGSS-aligned lesson plans and curriculum are posted at Nourish the Future's website. Teachers interested in learning about agriculture as a Nourish the Future teacher leader can learn more about the application process at the NTF Learning Community web page.