Brady teacher brings
agriculture to life in her classroom
You don't have to sell the
importance of agriculture to Betzy Day. A few moments in her classroom will convince you
of her commitment to teaching the science of agriculture.
Mrs. Day
is a graduate of the Texas Farm Bureau's Summer Agriculture Institute, which is held
annually for Texas teachers. She is putting what she learned to work in the classroom,
bringing agriculture to life for her third grade students.
"I
try to get them to answer the question, 'how does agriculture affect my life?' "
Betzy says.
With
samples of wool, mohair, cotton and grain, she is able to bring that message home to
agriculturally-oriented McCulloch County children. Mrs. Day says however, that the message
is equally important for urban youngsters.
"Agriculture
affects everything," Betzy asserts. "It is so much a part of every day life, not
only for our farm kids, but for everyone."
In Betzy
Day's Brady classroom, students learn about production agriculture and its impact on jobs
and local economies. She teaches the importance of conservation techniques and good
stewardship of natural resources. Her students also focus on the connection between modern
agriculture and sound environmental practices.
Her kids
make posters, build terrariums, and are involved in other hands-on learning activities.
Later on, Mrs. Day hopes to involve local farmers and ranchers with field trips and
demonstrations of agricultural activities.
Mrs. Day
recommends the Summer Agricultural Institute for other Texas teachers. SAI is a week-long
study of agriculture at Tarleton State University in Stephenville. It is sponsored by the
Texas Farm Bureau as part of its Agriculture in the Classroom Program. Three hours of
educational credit will be earned through Tarleton State University upon completing the
program.
The cost
of the program is $375, which is often underwritten by county Farm Bureau organizations.
Food, lodging, tuition and travel during the SAI are all covered in the one-time fee.
Teachers interested in attending the institute can read
more information or contact their local county Farm Bureau. Email mccty@centex.net
You may also contact Tad Duncan at Texas Farm Bureau for further information: Texas Farm
Bureau Research, Education and Policy Development Dept., Box 2689, Waco, TX 76702-2689.
Phone 254-751-2608