High school students teach importance of agriculture during Ag Literacy Week

Members of the MAHS FFA Chapter observed Ag Literacy week by visiting elementary classrooms throughout the district.

Anywhere Farm was the selected title for the 2024 Pennsylvania Ag Literacy Week, March 18 through 22. Meyersdale Area High School FFA students visited elementary classrooms to share this tale by Phyllis Root and explain to students how a “farm” can be planted anywhere you would like!

One of the goals of Pennsylvania Ag Literacy Week is to share the story of agriculture and teach students about the importance of agriculture in their daily lives. In Anywhere Farm, students learn how a farm can be the traditional plot, even a bucket, a boot or a pan – almost anything can be turned into a home for green, growing things.

Participating members included Bailey Knotts, Carrie Engle, Chris Engle, Jimmy Kretchman, Aidan Mosholder, Bridgette Beal, Addisyn Hetz, Maddie Engle, Katelyn Laws, Miranda Sandy, Autumn Baker and Eli Miller.

After reading the book, FFA members led students through a special activity allowing them to plant their own mini gardens using sealable bags and cotton balls. Each classroom was also given a copy of the book for their class library.

Bailey Knotts, Vice President, said sharing this program each year is enjoyable both for the youngsters and the presenters. “When we read to these kids I feel that it makes their day so much better. They get out of doing work,” she said with a laugh. “This year we read a book called Anywhere Farm and did an activity with them about growing a lettuce seed and a cotton ball showing that all you need to grow a farm is a seed, you and water.”

Katelyn Laws said these activities are a highlight of her FFA experience. “I loved reading the book with the kids, they really enjoyed it too! I loved being able to communicate with the kids about the importance of agriculture and teaching them they can be farmers too!”

Doreen Jamison, MAHS FFA Adviser, said this activity is a favorite for her students. “Ag Literacy Week gives FFA members a chance to teach younger students about agriculture.  The earlier they know about agriculture, the sooner they understand and appreciate where their food and clothing comes from.”