Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) is a distinctly focused, uniquely structured grassroots program coordinated by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Our goal is to help students gain a greater awareness of the role of agriculture in the economy and society, so that they may become citizens who support wise agricultural policies. AITC is carried out in each state, according to state needs and interests, by individuals representing farm organizations, agribusiness, education and government. Our state program is coordinated by the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation.

Louisiana Ag in the Classroom provides resources and training for teachers to integrate agriculture across the curriculum. We do not ask teachers to take time out of their very busy instructional day and teach a lesson on agriculture. Instead, we provide lessons designed to support core subjects by integrating agriculture into lesson plans and upholding the Louisiana Department of Education Grade-Level Expectations.

Mission Statement

To educate and increase understanding of agriculture and instill an appreciation for our renewable food, fiber and fuel systems.

History

In 1986, the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation initiated activities to establish an active Ag in the Classroom Program in the state.To further support the program and its mission, the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation established the Louisiana Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, Inc. as a 501(c) (3) charitable organization in 1998. The Foundation’s purpose is to support the various educational initiatives of the Ag in the Classroom Program and to provide a secure funding source for the program.