Nourish the Future fosters innovation in teaching and learning around food production, helping educators understand how agriculture connects to STEM knowledge, skills, and careers.
Four members of last year's NTF Teacher Leader Community are back, sharing their expertise with a new group of teachers.
- Kim Terry (Indiana)
- Cati Riddell (Ohio)
- Lisa Pavic (Illinois)
- Madeline Munar (Illinois)
24 teachers from across the country convened in Orlando to collaborate and learn more about how their science classrooms connect to modern agriculture. The group got first-hand experience of NTF lessons presented by coaches, as well as leadership training. They also had the opportunity to spend time at Commodity Classic, a huge agricultural trade show, where they spoke with agriculture industry people about the challenges they face.
NTF coaches provide support and encouragement to the Teacher Leader Community, helping to inspire them with exceptional learning experiences. Coaches also design, develop, and facilitate NTF professional development events.
This year's coaches led the Class IV group through lessons they'd created. They also collaborated with the new group about future curriculum development and visited the Commodity Classic trade show.
Each coach expressed their delight in returning for deeper learning and opportunities to connect their classroom. “I absolutely love this program because I'm passionate about agriculture and showing my kids where food comes from. I have learned so much, seeing how STEM plays such an important part in the future of agriculture,” Riddell said.
“NTF helps me develop ideas, feel comfortable with agriculture, and bring that back to the classroom. It’s been such a great experience to hear from professionals and fellow teachers. I like having data and unique ideas to share with my curriculum writing teams,” Pavic said.