The Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation is now accepting nominations for its annual Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award. This award honors a non-vocational PreK-12 teacher who goes above and beyond to bring agriculture to life in the classroom. Last year’s winner, Kerri Bell of Mid-Prairie East Elementary in Kalona, helps her second-grade students explore farming, sustainability and food systems through hands-on lessons and programs like Adopt-a-Farmer. The 2025 award recipient will receive up to $1,500 (covering conference and travel-related expenses) to attend the 2026 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Providence, R.I. Applications are due Dec. 1, by 5 p.m. Teachers can apply directly or be nominated by community members, colleagues or agriculture advocates. All nominated teachers must complete an official application. “Agriculture can be the perfect vehicle to teach science, social studies, math and language arts in a way that connects to students’ lives,” Kelly Foss, IALF executive director, said in a prepared statement. “This award shines a spotlight on Iowa’s most creative teachers who inspire students to understand where their food, fiber and energy come from.” For nomination forms and applications, click here.
