My Top Five Takeaways From Teaching Agriculture Education on the Move
By Grace Luebbering
As someone who grew up on a farm, but attended school in a more suburban community, I understand firsthand that not every student has the opportunity to see agriculture up close.
That makes teaching Agriculture Education on the Move™ (Ag Moves) so meaningful. Some of my favorite moments occur when students realize just how connected their everyday lives are to agriculture. Whether it is a conversation about where their food comes from, or a lesson that sparks new questions about farming, it’s rewarding to watch students make connections and gain a greater appreciation for the industry that helps feed, clothe, and fuel our world.
Throughout my time as an Ag Moves summer educator, I have had the opportunity to visit
classrooms across Missouri and share my passion for agriculture with hundreds of students. Although every school and classroom is different, there are a few experiences that have stood out and reminded me why agricultural education is vital.
1. Finding Shared Passions
Agriculture has always been a major part of my life. One of my favorite experiences has been meeting students who share that same passion. Every so often, a student will eagerly tell me about the calves, pigs, goats, or sheep they raise and show at local fairs.
These conversations instantly create a connection. I love hearing students talk about early mornings in the barn, preparing animals for shows, and the responsibilities that come with caring for livestock. It reminds me of my own experiences growing up, and gives students an opportunity to share something they’re proud of with their classmates.
2. Watching Students Connect Agriculture to Their Everyday Lives
Many students enter the classroom thinking agriculture only means farming. One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is watching their perspective grow as they begin to realize how agriculture touches nearly every part of their lives.
Whether we are discussing the food they eat, the clothes they wear, or the products they use every day, students quickly begin making connections. Seeing that moment when everything clicks, especially when students aren’t from a farming background, is one of my favorite parts of the job. It’s exciting to watch students gain a new appreciation for an industry that affects them every single day—for instance, seeing some of my students realize one of their favorite foods (ice cream, of course!) comes from dairy cattle.
3. Learning That Preparation Makes All the Difference
One lesson I have learned as an educator is that preparation is everything. Before students ever walk into the classroom, Ag Moves educators spend hours organizing supplies, preparing activities, and reviewing lesson materials.
Taking the time to prepare beforehand ensures lessons to run smoothly and keeps students engaged. Whether it’s cutting yarn, filling bags with cornstarch, or organizing activity stations, small details make a big difference. Behind every successful lesson is a great deal of preparation that students never see.
4. Seeing Curiosity Take Over the Classroom
Third graders are naturally curious, and some of the best classroom moments come from their questions. Students are eager to learn, and often ask questions that lead to conversations far beyond the lesson plan.
Their excitement and willingness to learn make every classroom visit unique. Whether they’re asking how seeds grow, why farmers rotate crops, or how animals are cared for 365 days a year, their curiosity keeps lessons engaging and reminds me that agricultural education can spark a lifelong interest in learning.
5. Receiving Thank-You Notes and Seeing Lasting Impact
At the end of the day, one of the most meaningful experiences is seeing the impact our lessons leave behind. Some of my favorite memories include receiving thank-you notes from students when I taught at St. Elizabeth last summer and hearing them recall concepts from previous lessons a year later.
Knowing that students not only enjoyed the lessons, but also remembered what they learned, makes all the preparation worthwhile. Those moments serve as a reminder that agricultural education can leave a lasting impression and help students develop a greater understanding of the world around them.
Being an Ag Moves summer educator has allowed me to share a part of my story while helping students better understand agriculture. None of this would be possible without partners across Missouri agriculture and the dedication of educators who spend countless hours preparing lessons and creating engaging experiences for their students. It is inspiring to work alongside people who care so deeply about agricultural literacy.
Together, we have the opportunity to help bridge the gap between the farm and the classroom while sharing the story of an industry that has shaped our lives and continues to play an important role in Missouri’s future.