Published: July 11, 2008 12:14 pm            

MN Ag in the Classroom Foundation thanks ag industry for support

“Our program would not be possible without the critical financial and in-kind support of the agricultural community,” said foundation chair Doris Mold.

July 7, 2008 — Over 100 agricultural businesses, commodity organizations, cooperatives, educational groups and individuals financially donated to Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation in its 22nd year. MAITC’s fiscal year ended June 30 and nearly $180,000 was raised to support the high quality agricultural literacy materials the Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom program is known for.

“Our program would not be possible without the critical financial and in-kind support of the agricultural community.” states foundation chair Doris Mold. “As generations continue to be further removed from the farm, the importance of our program only increases. It is vital that all of us in agriculture help to tell our story and support the MAITC program.”

This year the MAITC program introduced a new primary grade AgMag. The AgMag Junior is targeted for first grade. Over 250 classrooms requested the magazine in its inaugural year, reaching thousands of students. AgStar Foundation helped support development and publishing of the magazine in its pilot year. Teachers are excited about this addition to the MAITC toolbox and are already ordering issues for the next school year. The MAITC Foundation has committed support for two issues in the 2008-2009 school year.

The highly anticipated Fields of Energy DVD made its début this spring. Already, over 200 schools have requested a copy. The DVD takes a fact focused look at alternative energy in Minnesota. On the DVD teen reporters lead viewers through ethanol, biodiesel, turkey litter plants and a university research facility. There are also segments on geothermal and wind energy and careers. Fields of Energy is targeted towards upper middle school classrooms.

These two new agricultural literacy teaching tools and the continued production of MAITC’s other programs are all made possible through the generous support of the foundation’s sponsors and help from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. All of MAITC’s programs and materials are available free to educators in Minnesota.

“Every donated dollar helps educate thousands of students each year,” states Mold. “By donating to the MAITC Foundation you are helping to provide our state’s children with an understanding of the complex agricultural industry. These children are our future leaders, policy makers and voters. Through an informed understanding of agriculture they will help ensure that Minnesota is a good place for agriculture.”

To donate, contact the MAITC Foundation by visiting their website at www.maitcfoundation.org. or contact Emily Zweber, Foundation Director at 651-341-0430. To learn more about MAITC’s programs and materials visit their program website at www.mda.state.mn.us/kids.

        

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