Established in 1985, New York Agriculture in the Classroom (NYAITC) is a partnership of Cornell University, the NYS Department of Ag & Markets, the NYS Education Department, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and the New York Farm Bureau. Its mission is to foster awareness, understanding, and appreciation of how we produce food and fiber, what we eat, and how we live, by helping educators, students, and their communities learn about and engage with agriculture and food systems.
The selected book for 2018 is called Before We Eat…from farm to table by Pat Brisson and illustrated by Mary Azarian. This book explains where the food on your plate comes from, starting with the plants in the ground and ending with the food in the grocery store. It tells the story in a lyrical way with vibrant illustrations that will appeal to kids.
Careers in agriculture in New York State are a fast growing field and this book also covers many of the possible career choices in New York. All lessons, activities, and companion materials are aligned to the Common Core Learning Standards.
Volunteers will visit local elementary schools during Ag Literacy Week to read and talk to children about New York's agriculture industry. At the conclusion of the day's activities, the book will be donated to the school library for students and teachers to use throughout the school year. 2nd grade teachers and volunteers who are interested in participating in NY Ag Literacy Week should call or email the contact for this page. Visit the New York State Ag in the Classroom website to learn more about statewide activities and to learn about agriculture-themed books that have been featured in other years.
Last updated October 26, 2021