A group of Syracuse city school teachers recently spent a week of their summer vacation learning about the Ag in the Classroom program and Farm Bureau programs and how they can integrate ag education into their students' studies.
They visited various farm sites in the area throughout the week. Here is a writeup on the activities by teacher Ann Furze:
The week of July 28 - Aug. 1, 2008 was filled with a multitude of agricultural learning experiences for 35 educators in the Syracuse City School District.
Students of the district in-service course entitled, "Food; The Bread and Butter of Your Classroom," conducted by district educator Ann Furze, participated each day in either direct classroom instruction or on site trips to various Farm Bureau members' farms.
Richard Linck, of Linck Apiaries, Marcellus, provided opportunities to view the honey extraction process as well as observe active bee hives and learn of honey bees' amazing abilities.
Ron and Beth Southwick, of Treasures of Joy Farm, Nedrow, opened their hearts and farm for all to learn and observe a pastured poultry, beef and pig operation as well as a "semi" organic garden. While there, Larry Fleckenstein, vice president of Onondaga County Farm Bureau, gave an overview of the structure and function on the Bureau.
Julia Maum, of Salvere Farm, Marietta, enlightened class members of the purpose and location of various Community Supported Agriculture farms in the Syracuse area.
The class finale was a tour of Fesko Farms, Skaneateles, provided by Chris Fesko. The group was blown away by the technology, time and financial commitment needed to operate a large dairy farm. Teachers also visited Chris's Farm Discovery Center and learned of classroom field trip opportunities.
All in all, educators carried away a deep appreciation for those involved in agriculture. They were astounded by the passion each presenter conveyed.