The future of agriculture starts in the classroom.  

That’s why the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB) is making key checkoff investments geared toward the next generation of agriculturalists, including supporting a Nourish the Future workshop, “Feeding and Fueling the World: A Workshop for Wisconsin Teachers,” June 24 in Elkhorn. 

“It’s critical that we think about the future of the industry, not just the present,” WSMB President Patrick Mullooly said. “Our board knows that investing checkoff dollars in the young people who will one day be in our shoes is vital to the longevity of the soybean industry.” 

The two-day workshop, tailored toward environmental science, chemistry and biology teachers, includes hands-on, phenomena-based lessons focused on integrating the science of modern food production into classroom and career technical education programs.  

The goals for teacher education will include how to lead students in: 

• Testing and discussing human impact on soil and water quality 
• Connecting high-tech science careers to classroom learning 
• Exploring biotechnology and its scientific basis in agriculture 
• Making biofuels in the classroom to mitigate climate change 

“WSMB carefully considers where checkoff dollars are invested and the ‘Feeding and Fueling the World: A Workshop for Wisconsin Teachers’ workshop is just one investment towards the next generation,” WSMB Executive Director Adam Kask said. “To reach students and spread agriculture’s message, it’s important to invest in the individuals teaching them.” 

Generously sponsored by the United Soybean Board, of which WSMB is a member, Nourish the Future is a national education initiative developed by science teachers for science teachers that connects students to modern agriculture. 

“It’s never too early to get students interested in agriculture and that starts with educating teachers about the many facets of the agriculture industry,” Mullooly said. “It encompasses so much more than just farming. Nourish the Future workshops are a great opportunity to showcase that.” 

For more information about the workshop, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/feeding-and-fueling-the-world-a-workshop-for-wisconsin-teachers-tickets-828508750977.