2024 Outstanding Teacher Award for Wisconsin Teachers

The 2024 Outstanding Teacher Award for Wisconsin Teachers is an initiative organized by the Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom and the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation. This award recognizes a Wisconsin teacher or a teaching team for their exceptional contributions to teaching students about the significance of agriculture while incorporating agricultural concepts into various subjects across the curriculum. The award aims to highlight innovative teaching practices that enhance students' understanding of agriculture's role in their lives and society. The primary purpose of the award is to honor educators who effectively integrate agricultural education into their teaching. The objectives include promoting agricultural literacy among students and encouraging teachers to utilize agricultural information and materials in their classrooms. The award seeks to inspire educators to develop interdisciplinary programs that connect agriculture with other academic subjects, thereby enriching the educational experience for students. Funding for the award ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, although the specific duration of the grant is not mentioned. The award is open to certified teachers currently engaged in classroom instruction at the pre-K through 12 levels. Applications can be submitted by individual teachers or teaching teams. However, past state winners and certified agriculture education instructors are not eligible to apply. Ideal candidates are those who actively incorporate agricultural concepts into their curricula, demonstrating the impact of agriculture on personal lives, the environment, and the economy. Submission requirements include a completed application form, which must detail how the applicant integrates agriculture into their curriculum. Applicants are encouraged to provide specific examples of lessons and activities that support academic subjects and standards. Additionally, up to five supporting files can be uploaded to enhance the application. The evaluation criteria consist of three main components: the integration of agricultural literacy, the impact on students' academic success and classroom culture, and the inspiration provided to colleagues in utilizing agriculture as a teaching tool. The timeline for the award includes a deadline for applications set for October 31, 2024. The award honors state winners with a plaque presented in their classroom, an opportunity to join the Educator Ambassador Team, and attendance at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference. Furthermore, the state winner will represent Wisconsin in the Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award Program, with additional funding provided for travel and registration to the conference. For more information regarding the application process and specific details about the award, interested individuals can visit the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation's website or contact Beth Schaefer via email or phone. This award presents a valuable opportunity for educators in Wisconsin to gain recognition for their efforts in promoting agricultural education and to further their professional development in this important field.