We are constantly bombarded with knowledge via email, internet, TV, and more. Oftentimes, though, our coworkers are the most memorable sources of information and inspiration. Therein lies the power of the Ag Literacy Ambassadors.
In 2008, DeKalb County Farm Bureau decided to enlist the help of teachers in each school building to share ag literacy information with their fellow educators. Sixteen years later, that effort continues.
Most of the 42 elementary, middle, and high school buildings in DeKalb County have an Ag Literacy Ambassador. The role of Ambassadors is to share and promote information about ag literacy programs and resources with the other teachers in their buildings. They also help distribute items like the farm fact calendars provided by Illinois AITC and books donated annually to school libraries.
To aid them in their Ambassador role, Farm Bureau offers a special workshop in the fall. The workshop highlights resources like kits and Ag Mags, and reviews programs such as Ag in the Classroom presentations and the Summer Ag Institute. Workshop participants also try new activities and discuss ways to address curricular needs via agriculture.
