Nourish the Future brings k-12 science educators to PSM for 2nd workshop
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EmailPSM’s Addie Thompson and Erin Bosch-Hannah recently hosted 20 teachers from across Michigan as part of the Nourish the Future (NTF) initiative: "Feeding & Fueling the World."
This two-day workshop funded by the National Corn Growers Association and the United Soybean Board, with additional support from the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan and Michigan Wheat Program, connects local educators to modern agricultural research and practices, with an eye toward STEM career opportunities for their students.
"We're helping teachers inspire their students to learn science, solve problems, and explore STEM careers in agriculture," said Heather Bryan, NTF lead educator.
The comprehensive workshops include hands-on activities, field trips, and interactions with experts from industry and MSU. This year, participants engaged in sessions such as "Growing America" and "Energy and Biofuels," exploring topics from plant activities to fermentation processes.
A highlight of the event was a tour of Shady Lodge Farms, a centennial family-owned farm in Lansing, MI. Participants gained firsthand insights into modern farming techniques and sustainable agricultural practices. Following the tour, teachers enjoyed an industry dinner at the farm, where they had the opportunity to network with agriculture professionals and discuss the future of farming.
Colleen Overacker, a Middle School STEM teacher from Watervliet Middle School, expressed enthusiasm about the workshop: "Learning to make biodiesel fuel was exciting. It's amazing how much agriculture affects our lives, especially in rural areas where many of our students work in the fields."
The second day featured a Research Agronomy Tour at MSU's facilities, showcasing cutting-edge agricultural practices. Teachers participated in soil nutrient testing and DNA extraction experiments, gaining practical knowledge to share with their students.
Caleb Miller, a chemistry and physical science teacher at St. Johns High School, noted the workshop's impact: "I now see clearer connections between scientific processes and sustainable agriculture practices, which I can bring back to my classroom."
Participants always leave with new curriculum ideas, free supplies for classroom implementation, and a deeper understanding of modern agriculture challenges and innovations.
Miller added, "This opportunity will significantly impact my students' understanding of agriculture and sustainability."
The collaboration between educators and industry professionals at events like these is crucial for bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world agricultural practices.
For more information about Nourish the Future and upcoming workshops, educators can visit nourishthefuture.org. The website offers a wealth of free science classroom materials for incorporating agricultural topics into curricula.
Read more about the 2023 event here.
