West Virginia Ag in the Classroom
WVU Extension Service

Let's Learn About Ag in the Classroom



The Mission of West Virginia Agriculture in the Classroom:
To increase agricultural literacy in West Virginia by developing a program that increases student awareness about agriculture and instills in students an appreciation for our food and fiber system.


Who supports the West Virginia Ag in the Classroom program?

The West Virginia Ag in the Classroom program is supported through the West Virginia Farm Bureau Foundation and the West Virginia University Extension Service. Several other agricultural groups and state agencies provide in-kind contributions.


Why should I teach my students about Agriculture?

We are all involved in agriculture every day. Whether it's the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the sheets we sleep on, the medicines we use, or the homes we live in--agriculture is our "connection to life." With farmers making up only 2 percent of our population and producing food and fiber for us all, many of your students have no idea where their food and clothing come from. Farmers provide an abundance of food products. The American family spends less than 10 percent of its total income on food--the lowest in the world. American agriculture employs 21 million people or 18.5 percent of the labor force in production, processing, distribution, and marketing. United States agriculture provides a safe supply of food that frees the rest of us to pursue other activities such as medical research, space travel, computer technology, art, music, literature, philosophy, and recreation. Simply put, U.S. agriculture is number one--this is reason enough to educate students about agriculture.

What is Ag in the Classroom?

Ag in the Classroom (AITC) is a nationwide program designed to help students develop an awareness and understanding of our food and fiber system, and how agriculture impacts our daily lives. AITC provides training and resources to help teachers use agriculture as a vehicle to teach across existing curriculum. Teachers throughout the state can help to increase student's agricultural literacy. image of plant growing in a bottle

How do I teach my students about Agriculture?

AITC does not attempt to add anything to the existing school curriculum. Instead, materials enhance the subjects that teachers already teach. For example, science standards such as soils, natural resources, and microorganisms can be taught using agriculture as the vehicle.

How can I learn more about Ag in the Classroom?

The first West Virginia Summer Agriculture Institute, held in 1997, introduced teachers to Ag in the Classroom. For more information on West Virginia AITC contact Mary Beth Bennett.


Last modified April 7, 2000
Comments to:
Extension Service Web

Berkeley County Extension Service WVU Extension Service West Virginia University