‘Ag in the Classroom’ summer institute opens for teachers

Deb Widner of Cullman works on an assignment at Clay-Chalkville High School’s outdoor classroom during the 2014 “Ag in the Classroom” Summer Institute. (CONTRIBUTED)

HUNTSVILLE – Teachers can explore new ways to teach traditional subjects at the “Alabama Ag in the Classroom” (AITC) Summer Institute.

The free program on June 3-5 in Huntsville is open to 95 participants and will fulfill requirements for continuing education.

“Our Ag in the Classroom steering committee is very excited to take this year’s summer institute to the Huntsville area,” AITC Chairman Kim Ramsey said. Class will meet at Embassy Suites, and participants will take field trips to operating farms.

“Participants will learn about a wide range of agricultural endeavors from agri-tourism and honeybees to row crops and goat cheese. Getting outside for the tours is always a highlight of this event, but educators also really enjoy the seminars and guest speakers,” Ramsey said.

Guest speakers and other educators will present innovative techniques for integrating agricultural activities into classrooms. During farm tours, the participants will speak one-on-one with farmers and gain first-hand insight into producing food and fiber,” Ramsey said.

Educators who complete the three-day program also will receive lesson plans, examples of hands-on activities and books to help teach students about agriculture. Activities incorporate language arts, science, social studies and mathematics skills.

Teachers for grades K-6, home-school teachers, media specialists, administrators, extension agents and district conservationists are eligible to attend. Former institute participants can apply, but first-time attendees will receive preference.

The institute fulfills continuing education requirements. The institute is free, and lodging and meals will be provided. To receive workshop materials, applicants must be present for all activities from June 3 at 10 a.m. through June 5 at noon.

Institute sponsors include Alabama Farmers Federation, Alfa Insurance, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry & Egg Association and Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries.

For more information, call 334-612-5370, email to kearwood@alfafarmers.org or visit AlabamaAITC.org or Facebook/AlabamaAITC.