Growing Young Minds Through Agriculture
Celebrating Another Successful Year of the Classroom Agriculture Program
Building a strong future for agriculture starts with education. That’s why we’re proud to support initiatives like the Classroom Agriculture Program (CAP), which helps students connect with where their food comes from and the people who produce it.
The 2026 program was another outstanding success, reaching thousands of Alberta students with engaging, curriculum-connected lessons that inspire curiosity about farming, food production, and the important role agriculture plays in our everyday lives.
Reaching More Students Than Ever
This past year marked an exciting period of growth for the Classroom Agriculture Program. For the first time, the program expanded beyond Grades 4 and 5 to include Grade 3 classrooms, giving even more young Albertans the opportunity to learn about agriculture at an early age. The program also strengthened its volunteer training and assessment platform, helping ensure every classroom receives a consistent, high-quality educational experience.
By the numbers, the impact is impressive:
- 9,510+ students participated across Alberta.
- 317 classrooms welcomed CAP presentations.
- 80 dedicated volunteers shared their knowledge and experiences.
- More than 300 hours of classroom presentations were delivered.
- Students were reached in 90 communities across the province.
- 58% of presentations took place in urban schools, while 42% were delivered in rural communities.
Bringing Agriculture to Life
One of the greatest strengths of the Classroom Agriculture Program is the people behind it. Volunteers from across Alberta’s agriculture industry visit classrooms to share their firsthand experiences, answer questions, and help students better understand modern farming.
As schools continue to face increasingly full teaching schedules, the program has worked to strengthen its connection to both the Social Studies and Science curriculum, making it easier for educators to bring agriculture into their classrooms in meaningful ways.
Inspiring Students and Teachers
The program’s impact is reflected in the feedback from both teachers and volunteers.
Teachers praised the engaging presentations and lasting impact they had on students:
“This was a phenomenal presentation. I learned so much, as did the kids. Nancy was fabulous and the kids really enjoyed the treats she provided them. Thank you for the opportunity.”
Another teacher shared:
“This is a great program, and I am glad that you extended it to Grade 3 this year.”
Volunteers found the experience just as rewarding.
“I also presented for a special needs high school class and it was the most rewarding presentation I have done to date.”
Another volunteer summed it up simply:
“I just really enjoy being a part of this program!”
Supporting the Next Generation
For Alberta Pork, supporting agricultural education is an investment in the future. Programs like CAP help young people develop a greater appreciation for the farmers who produce their food while encouraging conversations about animal care, sustainability, innovation, and the many career opportunities available within agriculture.
By helping students make the connection between farms and food, we’re building stronger communities and helping ensure the next generation understands the value of Alberta agriculture.
We congratulate the Classroom Agriculture Program, its volunteers, educators, and partners on another successful year. Alberta Pork is proud to support initiatives that help inspire young minds and strengthen agriculture’s future across our province.
