The Pennsylvania Beef Council celebrated National Agriculture Literacy Weekby connecting students across the Commonwealth with the story of beef production, helping young learners better understand where their food comes from and the people behind it.
Through partnerships with schools statewide, the Pennsylvania Beef Council reached approximately 5,050 studentsacross 85 classrooms in 29 school districts, providing engaging, hands-on learning experiences centered around agriculture and food systems.
At the heart of the initiative was a classroom toolkit designed to support educators in bringing agricultural concepts to life. Each participating classroom received resources, including a featured children’s book, guided discussion materials, and interactive activities to help students explore how food is raised, grown, and prepared.
“Agricultural literacy plays a critical role in connecting students to their food and the people behind it,” said Kaitlyn Swope, Director of Marketing for the Pennsylvania Beef Council. “Through partnerships with school districts across the state, we helped bring accurate, real-world insights about the beef industry into the classroom, fostering understanding, trust, and appreciation for agriculture at an early age.”
From the Classroom to the Cafeteria
In districts like the Laurel School District in Lawrence County, PA, Ag Literacy Week came to life through both education and experience. Educators read the featured book to young learners, sparking conversations about agriculture, while students also enjoyed beef nachos served in the cafeteria, connecting what they learned directly to the food on their trays.
This combination of storytelling and real-world application reinforces key lessons, helping student see and taste how agriculture plays a role in their daily lives.
Building Connections That Last
In addition to classroom activities, students participated in a Thank You Card initiative, writing notes to farmers and agricultural partners. These cards are being collected and will be shared with Pennsylvania Beef Council board members, offering a meaningful reminder of the impact agricultural education has on young learners.
By engaging students early, the Pennsylvania Beef Council is helping to build a foundation of understanding that supports both informed consumers and future advocates for agriculture
About National Agriculture Literacy Week
National Agriculture Literacy Week is a nationwide effort designed to increase awareness and understanding of agriculture among students. Through classroom resources and community partnerships, the initiative helps students explore how agriculture impacts their everyday lives.
ATTACHED PHOTOS Preschool students in Laurel School District donned beef ears provided by the PA Beef Council as they enjoyed beef nachos for lunch during Ag Literacy Week.
To learn more about the PA Beef Council, contact Nichole Hockenberry, PA Beef Council Executive Director, at nhockenberry@pabeef.org or 1-888-4BEEFPA.
