By Blake Jackson
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York is leading the celebration of Agricultural Literacy Week across the state, emphasizing the importance of educating students about agriculture. The initiative, organized by New York Agriculture in the Classroom, aims to highlight the significance of agriculture and the diverse career opportunities it offers.
Joining thousands of volunteers, Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado and New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball are actively participating in reading events and engaging with students throughout the week. Through book readings and hands-on activities, they aim to instill an understanding of agriculture's role and its impact on daily life.
Governor Hochul, reflecting on her own upbringing in 4-H, underscores the essential role of Agricultural Literacy Week in nurturing future generations' appreciation for agriculture. She acknowledges the dedication of volunteers who are fostering awareness about food sources and environmental stewardship.
Lieutenant Governor Delgado echoes these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of broadening students' knowledge through initiatives like Agricultural Literacy Week. By educating children about agriculture's significance, the initiative aims to cultivate curiosity and awareness about the world around them.
New York State boasts one of the nation's most extensive and longstanding Agricultural Literacy Week programs. Volunteers visit schools statewide to read agricultural-themed books, fostering discussions about food production and sustainability. This year, Commissioner Ball and Lieutenant Governor Delgado are scheduled to visit schools in Rochester and Schoharie, respectively, to engage with students firsthand.
Agricultural Literacy Week 2024 focuses on strawberries, showcasing their significance as a staple summer fruit. The selected book, "I LOVE Strawberries," illustrates one girl's determination to grow her own food, embodying qualities like responsibility and perseverance. New York, ranking 8th in strawberry production nationally, celebrates the crop's availability in local markets and its contribution to the state's agricultural landscape.
This year, a record 103,000 students statewide will participate in Agricultural Literacy Week. Volunteers not only read to students but also share personal experiences in agriculture, enriching the educational experience. Teachers receive follow-up activities to reinforce the lessons learned during the week, ensuring ongoing engagement with agricultural concepts throughout the school year.
In essence, Agricultural Literacy Week serves as a platform to inspire future generations, fostering an appreciation for agriculture's importance and its role in shaping communities and economies. Through collaborative efforts and educational initiatives, New York aims to cultivate a generation of informed and environmentally conscious citizens.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-eugenesergeev
Categories: New York, General