Educators seeking modern ways to teach traditional subjects while fulfilling continuing education requirements are encouraged to apply for one of 95 coveted seats at this year’s Alabama Ag in the Classroom (AITC) Summer Institute. Applications are due April 15 for the free program, which takes place June 3-5 in Huntsville.
Guest speakers and other educators will present AITC participants with innovative techniques for integrating agricultural activities into classrooms. The program features local farm tours, where attendees speak one-on-one with farmers and gain first-hand insight into producing food and fiber.
“Our Ag in the Classroom Steering Committee is very excited to take this year’s AITC Summer Institute to the Huntsville area,” said AITC Chairman Kim Ramsey. “Participants will learn about a wide range of agricultural endeavors from agritourism and honey bees to row crops and goat cheese. Getting outside for the tours is always a highlight of this event, but educators also really enjoy the seminars and guest speakers.”
Educators who complete the three-day program also receive lesson plans, examples of hands-on activities and books to help teach students about agriculture. Activities incorporate language arts, science, social studies and mathematics skills plus those found in the Alabama courses of study.
Kindergarten through sixth-grade classroom and home-school teachers, media specialists, administrators, Extension agents and district conservationists are eligible to attend. Former institute participants may apply, but preference is given to first-time attendees.
The AITC program fulfills continuing education requirements. There is no fee to apply or attend, and lodging and meals are provided. Applicants must be present for all activities from 10 a.m. June 3, until noon June 5, to receive workshop materials.
AITC sponsors include the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alfa Insurance, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, Alabama Poultry & Egg Association and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries. Proceeds from the sale of the Ag Tag license plates also benefit the program.
To apply online or learn more about the program, visit AlabamaAITC.org. For questions, contact Ramsey at (334) 612-5370 or kearwood@alfafarmers.org. To view photos from last year’s institute, ‘like’ the group’s page at Facebook.com/AlabamaAITC.