Ford-Iroquois Ag in the Classroom

Ag in the Classroom is a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and Ford-Iroquois Farm Bureau. Many other agriculture organizations and businesses help support this important program. The goal is to educate youth and adults about the importance of agriculture to our society and to show that agriculture is more than cows and plows.

This program provides educators with access to educational resources, specialized events, grant opportunities, and more. One of the core education tools are the ag literacy kits, which provide educators with comprehensive lesson plans to teach about various agriculture topics.

Available Kits

Explore what kits we have available for your classroom! Contact Gracie to find out how you can bring these exciting lessons to your students!

Virtual Kits

  • A Day Without Agriculture: Explore the vital role of agriculture in our daily lives by imagining a world without it.
  • Agritourism: Nine 45-minute sessions that dive into the intersection of agriculture and tourism, exploring how farms attract visitors and educate the public.

Hybrid Kits

  • Embryology: Learn about chick development with hands-on options, including live chicks or a one-day lesson.
  • Dairy Magic: Discover dairy science through activities like making cheese or ice cream.
  • All About Wheat: Learn how wheat is grown and used, with an option to grind wheat into flour and make your own tortilla.
  • Pollinators: Explore the world of pollinators, the plants they love, and their importance to our ecosystem through books and slides.
  • Worm Farm: A monthlong program where students care for worms, make observations, and learn about composting.

Kits Coming Soon

  • Swine Kit: Learn about biosecurity and the care of pigs.
  • Floral Design: Discover the art and science behind creating beautiful floral arrangements.
  • Illinois History: Dive into the rich agricultural history of Illinois.
  • Electricity: Explore the basics of electricity and its connection to agriculture.

Contact Gracie for more information on when these kits will be available.

Find the Support that You Need From Local Staff

Gracie Schleef

Gracie Schleef

Ford-Iroquois Counties 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator
Keywords
4-H
Youth Development
Workforce Development
Agriculture
Teenagers