Agriculture Education Week delivers an all-encompassing learning experience for students, equips educators with ready-to-use lessons and fosters community involvement to create hands-on learning opportunities on the diverse world of agriculture for students.
“In today’s political climate, it’s not often you see a Democratic Lt. Governor, a Republican Agriculture Commissioner and the head of an independent entity like the Department of Education come together for this important cause,” Lt. Gov. Coleman said. “We have found common ground in our shared value of providing our children with opportunities that will allow all Kentuckians to thrive for generations to come. We do that by bringing two of the most important sectors - agriculture and education - together in a way that’s never been done before.”
“Ag Education Week is about more than just teaching kids where their food comes from. It’s about showing them the opportunities agriculture offers and inspiring them to be a part of its future," Commissioner Shell said. “Agriculture touches every aspect of our lives - from the clothes we wear to the fuel that powers our communities. By engaging students early, we’re not only fostering appreciation but also preparing the next generation of farmers, scientists, business leaders and innovators who will keep Kentucky agriculture strong. Investing in education today ensures a thriving sustainable industry for tomorrow.”
Agriculture has a nearly $50 billion impact on Kentucky. There are nearly 70,000 farms in Kentucky (7th most in the United States) that compose more than 12.4 million acres of land, making up nearly 50 percent of Kentucky’s total acreage. Kentucky is the top beef-producing state east of the Mississippi River, and 95 percent of the world’s bourbon is produced in the commonwealth.
