Each spring, Gridley FFA members apply to be part of a team that brings hands-on agriculture to surrounding elementary schools. FFA members plan, prepare, and organize the events, which typically include two school sites. At the event, FFA members lead stations that introduce children to a variety of agricultural topics, with the goal being to help the students have a personal connection to agriculture. This year, topics included pollination, planting techniques, livestock animals, and agricultural processing. Each station is designed to create conversations about agriculture and to highlight the ways agriculture benefits society.
Several years ago, Gridley FFA members realized that many incoming eighth graders had a deficit in their knowledge about agriculture prior to signing up for the ag program. They decided to do something about it. “Even in a town like Gridley, where we have lots of agriculture, we saw a need for educating students. We hope this early introduction can help students continue to question where their food comes from and where to get correct information about it. We hope this interaction sparks an interest in agriculture, and a future passion for the industry,” explained Becca Hamman, former Chapter President, and event organizer.
The participating students and teachers look forward to the event each year, and credit the FFA members enthusiasm for creating a memorable experience for children. “The kids absolutely love learning from the older kids, who treat them with the utmost enthusiasm, especially through the lessons that are informative and entertaining,” reported Mrs. Foster, a first grade teacher at McKinley Primary School.
The FFA members also report that the Ag Discovery Days are worth the time and effort. “As increasingly important and pressing issues face agriculture, I believe it’s essential to educate the next generation that will be voting and making decisions that impact agriculture,” explained Addison Busch, a participating FFA member. Gridley FFA hopes to expand the program to include even more schools and students in the future.
