There are teacher grants in Wisconsin that are earmarked to educate children about agriculture and farming. Programs are available for educators that teach preschoolers to high school teachers, and foundations fund private and public schools.
Small Grants
Mini or small grants are usually under $100, and schools have found unique ways to spend the money. In 2022, some funds went to buy agriculture-related books for an elementary school, and a high school developed a culinary class focused on dairy. One teacher spent the winnings on chickens, enabling their students to work with incubators, feeders, and chicks. Recycling and gardening were also prominent themes.
Matching Grants
Matching grants stretch a school’s budget a little farther. One winning teacher used the prize money to purchase gardening tools and plants for summer school students. The children planted, watered, weeded, and picked their own food. They learned about the growing season and what it takes to produce a crop. The school will reuse the tools every year. Some educators were able to take students on field trips to dairy farms.
Providers
Several foundations and corporations provide funding, such as the American Farm Bureau. Each application is unique. Some are age-specific while others focus on on-site learning. The Bureau of Indian Education also supports these grants. The state leaders recognized that the future of sustainable farming begins with the youth. The sponsors work to expand educational opportunities, develop new programs, and foster interest in all areas of this business. For more information on teacher grants in Wisconsin that focus on farming and agriculture, contact wisagclassroom.org.
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