Teachers are the key to accomplishing agricultural literacy. Because most teachers today did not grow up on farms, Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) offers summer institutes and in-service workshops throughout the year to give teachers firsthand exposure to farms, ranches, greenhouses, orchards and an array of other agricultural enterprises. While learning a new understanding of agriculture, teachers also may be able to earn college credits for attending these programs.

Many states offer scholarships for teachers to attend AITC training sessions, mini-grants to create new educational resources and awards for incorporating agriculture into their class curricula. Teachers who gain experience with AITC often become ambassadors who convey information and enthusiasm about the program to colleagues. State AITC newsletters provide educators with lesson plans and teaching tips throughout the school year.

AITC classroom materials, created by and for teachers, are available as supplements to the regular curricula and may be used to help meet state mandated learning standards. Educational resources available through the AITC program include teacher’s guides and lesson plans, videos, magazines, thematic kits, posters, pen pal programs, speakers bureaus, farm tours, field trips, gardens, greenhouses, model barns filled with books and toys, and even mobile classrooms. AITC generates excitement among students of all ages by offering opportunities for hands-on learning experiences using real life materials, everyday situations and current issues.