The Montana Stockgrowers Foundation (MSF) is excited to share the recipients of its recently launched education grant program, the Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant. In the Foundation’s first round of funding, the program provided a total of $3,000 in grant funding to six Montana schools. These grants will support educators who integrate agriculture into their classrooms, helping an estimated 450 students better understand the role Montana agriculture plays in everyday life. The Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant offers up to $500 per award and is made possible through matching funds provided by Montana Ag in the Classroom.
East Middle School in Butte will share hands-on cooking experiences while using beef to teach middle school students about protein sources, safe handling of raw meats, proper cooking temperatures, and balanced meal planning.
Ekalaka Public Schools will provide high school students with experiential learning opportunities in plant growth, agriculture, and business principles by managing all aspects of cultivating plants and plant sustainability.
Highwood Public Schools will incorporate plant science curriculum into the program’s greenhouse and pumpkin patch that are being developed for high school students.
Prickly Pear Elementary in East Helena will help elementary students to understand the life cycle of an animal, foster curiosity and excitement around animals, and to understand the basic needs of animals. Funds will be used to supply chicken raising equipment for two classroom setups.
Savage Public Schools will introduce second grade students to basic concepts related to agriculture during National Ag Week. Funds will be used to purchase supplies from the Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) Program store.
Ulm School will use funds to support their new agriculture classes for middle school students. Funds will be used to purchase supplies for the various lessons and for transportation costs for a field trip.
Grants are aimed to enable teachers to integrate agriculture into their classrooms and foster discussions with students on its importance. Applications are open to K-12 educators and administrators in the state of Montana. The grant funding can support a wide range of agricultural focused lessons, hands-on projects or events.
To learn more or apply for funding, educators can submit an online grant application at www.mtbeeffoundation.org. Applications are accepted at any time throughout the school year and summer.
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Montana Stockgrowers Association
