Our Mission and Shared Purpose
At the Food and Agriculture Center for Science Education, our mission is to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and innovation through real-world science. We bring agriculture to life by connecting students with the science, technology, and people behind the food they eat. By working together with industry partners, we ensure that learning experiences are both academically rigorous and grounded in authentic agricultural practices and science.
The Value of Partnership
Our partnerships with leading agricultural organizations — including dairy, beef, and other commodity groups — allow us to create curriculum resources informed by real-world expertise. These collaborations give students access to accurate, up-to-date science and industry insights, while helping educators connect lessons to science concepts, processes, and careers in agriculture.
Authentic, Hands-On Science Learning
We design high quality instructional materials that explore the science of food systems — from animal health and nutrition to environmental stewardship. Students gain the tools to evaluate evidence, understand agricultural processes, and make informed decisions about the food they choose. In doing so, we foster respect for diverse production methods and help students see the role science plays in nutrition, culture, and global food security.
Inspiring the Next Generation
By connecting students with the people, science, and innovation driving modern agriculture, we spark interest in STEM careers and entrepreneurship. Many of these students will become the scientists, innovators, and decision-makers shaping the future of food — and our programs ensure they understand and appreciate the role that today’s producers play in meeting tomorrow’s needs.
Invitation to Collaborate
We welcome partnerships with organizations that share our commitment to high-quality science education and the future of agriculture. Together, we can provide students with learning experiences that are both academically enriching and deeply connected to the realities of food production.
Our Valued Partners in Agricultural Education
We’re proud to collaborate with organizations that share our commitment to advancing agricultural literacy. Over the years, partners such as the Beef Checkoff and the American Dairy Council have helped bring authentic, science-based learning experiences to students across the country. Together, we’ve developed engaging programs, hands-on activities, and real-world case studies that connect classrooms with the people, processes, and innovations behind our food system. By working alongside industry leaders, we ensure our resources reflect both the science of agriculture and its essential role in our everyday lives.
Recognized for Excellence
Our units proudly carry the NGSS Design Badge, a mark of quality awarded by NextGenScience for materials that fully embody the vision of the Next Generation Science Standards. This recognition affirms that our resources integrate three-dimensional learning, use compelling real-world phenomena, and support equitable, rigorous science education.
- 30+ Free NGSS aligned materials and activities
- 3 NGSS Badged Units
- 10,000+ Educators Served Nationwide
- 50 States where our materials are in use
- 10 Years of inspiring youth
- 50+ Professional Development Events completed
Seeding Sensemaking. Cultivating Curiosity.
We inspire the next generation of innovators by connecting students to the real-world wonder of agriculture. By equipping teachers with tools, training, and authentic experiences, we’re planting the seeds for a sustainable, food-secure future.
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