Describe any agriculture based projects you have been involved in lately.  An initial project in my classroom was a single aloe vera plant. It became a solution for paper cuts and chapped hands, a topic of research, an infinite supply of cuttings, and the spark to grow things. We have progressed to iPad research featuring ag websites, primary source databases, novels set on Minnesota farms, career exploration of ag related businesses, and eating school raised tilapia at our annual fish fry compliments of our Ag teacher. I was lucky enough to be awarded a CHS　scholarship to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference this July.  I brought back armloads of materials, web sites, curriculum, and contact information from amazing people in the field of agriculture.

What advice do you have for other teachers on implementing agriculture into their classroom?

Our 21st century students need to know how and where their food and fiber comes from. They are all digital natives and have technology skills. They need to think creatively, problem solve, communicate, and work as a team. I tell teachers to start small, reach out to the ag community, and open the door to new teaching and learning possibilities. As I tell my students every day: dream big dreams and don't let the flies sit on you.

Today's students are tomorrow's community leaders and voting citizens. I want them to be passionately employed, and empathetic, critical thinkers who play by the Lone Ranger's Rules: Do what is best for the most. With awareness of agricultural possibilities comes engagement and entrepreneurship. When they are working for and running the nursing home I end up in, I want them to make sure I am eating as a locavore. I want to be turning the pages of a book made from the trees I planted ninety years ago. I want to be wearing and sleeping on cotton fibers, and ingesting quality U.S. pharmaceuticals based on the latest research. As my Grandmother said: "Stay close to the ground." And my Dad could usually be heard shouting: "Finish the race strong." Agriculture is our past, our present, and our future.