By Blake Jackson
New York State celebrated Agricultural Literacy Week, marking its 20th anniversary, with thousands of volunteers engaging students across the state.
This initiative, organized by the New York Agriculture in the Classroom (NYAITC) program, which is also celebrating its 40th year, aims to educate students about agriculture and its career opportunities through book readings and hands-on activities.
“Preparing a strong, resilient generation of agricultural leaders starts by instilling in our young people an understanding and appreciation of how our food is grown and where it comes from. Ag Literacy Week is all about getting young children excited about food and agriculture and plays an essential role in introducing them to the importance of our industry," said Commissioner Richard Ball of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.
"I congratulate our partners at New York Agriculture in the Classroom for the tremendous milestones they’ve achieved this year and want to thank the thousands of volunteers across the state, including right here at the Department, who are joining the effort to share the story of agriculture with our youngest New Yorkers!”
New York State boasts one of the nation's largest and longest-running Agricultural Literacy Week programs. Commissioner Ball himself participated by reading to a second-grade class at Schoharie Elementary School, and numerous department staff members volunteered in classrooms statewide.
This year's featured book, "The Pie that Molly Grew" by New York author Sue Heavenrich, tells the story of a girl growing a pumpkin and turning it into a pie, illustrating the journey from seed to harvest.
NYAITC announced a milestone of reaching one million students since the program's 2006 inception. In 2025, over 100,000 students across 62 counties will participate.
Volunteers lead interactive lessons, and teachers receive follow-up activities to continue the learning throughout the year.
Agricultural Literacy Week is a meaningful opportunity to connect students with the farmers, food, and agricultural systems that sustain our communities," said New York Agriculture in the Classroom Director Katie Carpenter. "We hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate the vital role of agriculture in their daily lives. This program not only builds a deeper understanding of where our food comes from, but it introduces students to the people living innovative careers in agriculture."
For more information about NYAITC and Agricultural Literacy Week, including past book selections, visit newyork.agclassroom.org/programs/literacy.
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Categories: New York, Education, Government & Policy