The ND FFA Foundation is dedicated to providing opportunities that foster leadership development and personal growth for FFA members across the state. It’s the core of our mission! Did you know the Foundation also provides resources for ag educators and others in the agriculture sector whose work aligns with our mission?
The Ag in the Classroom grant program is offered in partnership with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture. Each year, any organization or individual may apply to receive funding for developing and conducting educational materials and programs to help young people understand the importance of agriculture in North Dakota and in their lives. The Stanley FFA Chapter hosted a “Food for America” event with their Ag in the Classroom Grant. Learn more below.
Program: Stanley FFA Chapter
Impact: 350 elementary students, 53 FFA members
Purpose: During National FFA Week, Stanley FFA members engage with young students through the Food for America initiative, leading discussions on agricultural topics to promote the importance of agriculture and inspire future involvement in FFA.
Objectives:
- Inform young students about how agriculture is integral to their daily lives, emphasizing the significance of the agricultural industry in providing food, clothing, and other essentials.
- Spark interest in FFA and agricultural education among elementary students, encouraging them to consider joining FFA and taking agricultural classes as they grow older.
- Showcase the value of educating young children about agriculture, laying the foundation for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the field.
- Develop and apply teaching methods that are tailored to the learning styles and needs of young children, making the content accessible and engaging.
- Foster a sense of responsibility and accountability in FFA members by involving them in the planning, preparation, and execution of educational activities and presentations.
The Stanley FFA chapter hosts the annual “Food For America” event, where FFA members create educational presentations and hands-on food activities based on specific agricultural topics for elementary students. This year, the Kindergarten students learned about soil, complemented by a dirt cup activity that allowed them to see and feel the concepts discussed. Food For America, held during FFA Week, is a key part of Stanley’s efforts to support and promote FFA, and it has become a much-anticipated event for the children.
The mini-grant was used to purchase supplies for the food-related activities in each classroom, ensuring that each lesson was both informative and interactive. The event also serves as a practical learning experience for the FFA members, who are responsible for the entire process—from developing PowerPoints to leading activities—thereby reinforcing their leadership and organizational skills.
This year, over 350 elementary students participated, learning about various agricultural commodities and the vital role agriculture plays in their lives. The event not only educated the children but also encouraged them to share their newfound knowledge with their families. A total of 53 FFA members were involved, demonstrating strong volunteer participation. The event received positive feedback from both teachers and students, with particular praise for the engaging, hands-on activities. The success of the event was highlighted in the local newspaper, further raising awareness of the importance of agricultural education. Plans are already underway to incorporate teacher feedback and improve the event for next year.
