Free events on Minnesota Ag education

Thursday, May 23, 2024

The Minnesota Agricultural Education Leadership Council (MAELC) is calling on residents to participate in defining the future of Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources (AFNR) education. This June, MAELC will conduct six listening sessions across the state to collect insights that will inform the 2030 Minnesota AFNR Education Blueprint.

Sarah Dornink, the Executive Director of MAELC, emphasized the importance of these sessions: “Every five years, MAELC offers the opportunity to provide input on the future of AFNR Education across the state.”

The council is reaching out to educators, government officials, non-profit leaders, community group members, and industry professionals to contribute their visions and strategies.

The sessions aim to address key areas including Agricultural Literacy, School-Based Agricultural Education and FFA, Post-Secondary AFNR Education, Agriculture Teacher Preparation, and Farm Business Management.

These meetings are crucial in developing effective educational strategies that will serve the agricultural community and enhance the state’s educational frameworks in agriculture.

Each session is scheduled from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and includes a complimentary lunch. The locations for these events are strategically spread across Minnesota, including University campuses and colleges renowned for their agricultural programs. Registration is free & required by June 10 and can be completed at z.umn.edu/AFNRlisteningsessions.

Here are the dates and locations:

June 18: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, St. Paul, MN
June 20: South Central College, Mankato, MN
June 21: Southwest Minnesota State University, Marshall, MN
June 25: Central Lakes College, Brainerd, MN
June 26: M State, Detroit Lakes, MN
June 27: Ridgewater College, Willmar, MN

This initiative not only helps in building a comprehensive education blueprint but also fosters community involvement in the agricultural education process, ensuring that the future strategies align well with the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders involved.

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