The inaugural Canadian Agriculture Literacy Week began on February 26 and will be wrapping up on March 3, 2012. Schools across the country have been participating in the hands-on program, which is teaching children about agriculture and encouraging them to celebrate the industry by connecting them with farmers and local food sources.
Across the province, over 1,100 students in grades 3, 4, and 5 have been delighting in presentations about local agriculture, organized by the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Agriculture (NLFA) and the Department of Natural Resources.
Farmers and agricultural representatives have been regaling students with tales about their farms and their careers in agriculture. Through interactive sessions that draw out from primary school curriculum, students are also learning about the importance of good soil, animal management, and more! Each presentation is unique, with guest presenters bringing their own experiences, interests, and passions into the classroom. The program also encourages students to celebrate local foods.
According to Ron Podbielski, Farm Credit Canada Vice President, Communications and Corporate Social Responsibility: “Agriculture matters to Canadians. Canadian Agriculture Literacy Week is an opportunity for students across Canada to learn about the industry and its valuable contributions to the economy and the world. The students of today will be the producers and consumers of tomorrow. Increasing their ag literacy is an important part of our long-term commitment to growing the business of agriculture.”
NLFA Agriculture in the Classroom coordinator, Christa Wright, says that presentations and activities in Newfoundland and Labrador have been warmly received so far. Students and teachers alike have enjoyed these dynamic sessions, and the opportunity to learn more about what’s growing here, from those with first-hand agricultural experiences.
