Illinois Teachers Boost Ag Literacy with IAA Foundation Grants

Local educators in Ogle and Carroll counties are set to enhance agricultural literacy in their classrooms thanks to generous grants from the IAA Foundation. These funds are part of a larger initiative by Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC), which aims to connect students with agriculture through engaging educational experiences.

A total of **$668,150** in grants has been allocated to **80 agricultural literacy coalitions** across **89 counties in Illinois**. This financial support will be utilized for materials, training, and educational activities that will take place during the **2025-2026 school year**. According to **Kevin Daugherty**, the IAITC education director, “Providing these grants ensures teachers have a local connection and access to engaging resources to integrate accurate agricultural content into their classrooms.”

The impact of IAITC programs is substantial. Last academic year, **643,958 students** and **36,335 teachers** participated in agricultural literacy lessons facilitated by the initiative. County AITC programs conducted **31,233 individual programs** throughout the state, averaging **390 programs per coalition**. These initiatives include classroom presentations, farm field trips, and agriculture expos, enriching existing curricular standards.

In **Ogle and Carroll counties**, the programs reached **26,203 students** through **1,298 events**. Activities varied widely and included hands-on experiences such as making butter, kneading bread, and studying soil. These interactive lessons not only educate but also foster a deeper understanding of agricultural connections among young learners.

Funding for county coalition grants comes from partnerships with various organizations and individuals who support the IAITC. The IAA Foundation, acting as the charitable arm of the **Illinois Farm Bureau**, raises essential funds each year for the IAITC program. In addition to county grants, the foundation provides resources for **Ag Mags**, teacher grants, and **Summer Ag Academies**.

Susan Moore, director of the IAA Foundation, emphasized the collaborative effort behind these initiatives. “Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom is a true partnership,” she stated. “From committed funding groups to every volunteer and each dollar donated, we are Illinois agriculture unified in a common goal to enhance ag literacy and aid in early discovery of connections to agriculture.”

The IAITC works closely with numerous partner organizations, including the **Illinois Beef Association**, **Illinois Corn Marketing Board**, and **University of Illinois Extension**, among others. These collaborations are crucial in ensuring that agricultural education remains a priority for future generations.

For those interested in contributing to this vital cause or to learn more about major donors, additional information can be found at **www.iaafoundation.org**. To explore more about IAITC programs, visit **www.agintheclassroom.org**.