Six educators recognized for innovative agriculture teaching in schools
Six teachers from across the United States have been recognized for their outstanding efforts in teaching agriculture in classrooms. The award is presented by the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization, along with support from the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and Farm Credit.
"Across the country, these dedicated educators are using agriculture to help students explore the world around them through hands-on, experiential learning," said Dr. Jaye L. Hamby, director of the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, which provides federal leadership and annual support for the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization.
"National Agriculture in the Classroom is honored to recognize and celebrate these talented teachers for their innovative approach to teaching core academic concepts through the lens of food and agriculture," said Kevin Daugherty, president of NAITCO and director of Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom.
He added, "Their effort to provide authentic learning experiences for students is critical to creating an agriculturally literate generation who understand and appreciate the source and value of agriculture in their daily lives."
The 2026 winners include Stephanie Westhafer, Marie Kruse, Shelly Budziszewski, Susan McLaughlin, Joshua Gonzalez, Amanda Ripa, and Jacey Duncan. Each teacher uses unique methods such as school gardens, STEM lessons, field visits, and hands-on farming activities to help students learn.
For example, some educators use garden clubs to teach how food grows, while others involve students in building farm systems like hydroponics and composting. These activities help connect classroom lessons to real-world agriculture.
The winners were honored at the 2026 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Providence, Rhode Island. The program continues to support innovation in education and encourages students to understand the value of agriculture in daily life.
Photo Credit: NAITCO