School and Community Programs

Illinois Extension provides educators, parents and caregivers access to well-researched and field-tested resources and programs to engage and inspire youth, from early childhood to age 18.

Programs can be tailored to meet the needs of youth in many settings, including school classrooms, after-school programs, libraries and community centers. Topic areas include embryology, career exploration, agriculture, health, nature exploration, horticulture, visual arts and more.

Contact a staff member below to discuss how Extension might help you reach your teaching goals.

IDNR Hands-on Educational Trunks

Educators, parents and community members are invited to borrow resource trunks, free of charge, developed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Education. The totes are filled with Illinois-specific information and hands-on activities on nature topics, including aquatic species, birds, trees and wild mammals. Contact the Whiteside County office for more information.

Ag in the Classroom
Embryology Project
Smiling girl with hands on her head

Mindful Me

This health and wellness program utilizes children’s literature and hands-on activities to introduce K-2nd graders to concepts in mindfulness practices.
Paper chain of figures held between hands

Get Experience in Mindfulness (GEM)

Teens are encouraged to build positive relationships, beliefs in themselves, self discipline, self control, self reflection and to serve others. 
Teens cooking in a school kitchen

Illinois Food Challenge

Middle and high school students have a great time becoming “kitchen bosses,” developing lifelong skills in food safety, preparation, nutrition, presentation and more!