By Blake Jackson
Kalvin Schneider, a fourth-grade student from Chilton, and Nellie Jo Erickson, a fifth-grade student from Mauston, have been named the Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom essay contest state winners.
This year’s competition challenged fourth- and fifth-grade students to write about the theme, “Dig into Wisconsin Soil Where Good Things Grow.”
Hosted annually by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Agriculture in the Classroom program, the contest encourages students to strengthen their writing, reading, and research skills while exploring the importance of agriculture.
Essays were evaluated based on content, creativity, and grade-level writing standards. The competition is open to all fourth- and fifth-grade students across Wisconsin.
Kalvin earned first place in the fourth-grade division. He is a student of Mrs. Carrie Stammer at Chilton Area Catholic School in Calumet County. Nellie Jo claimed the fifth-grade title after submitting her essay independently with support from her family. She represents Juneau County.
The winners were recognized during the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Board meeting on July 9 in Madison by Secretary Randy Romanski and board members.
“Wisconsin Agriculture is an integral part of our state’s history, economy, and culture, which are all important learning standards in both fourth and fifth grade classrooms,” says Beth Schaefer, Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom Coordinator.
“Teachers and Agriculture in the Classroom volunteers work to ensure the annual essay contest supports and encourages students to learn about the critical role that agriculture plays in daily life so that students build an awareness and understanding of the food and fiber they use every day. This year’s winners did an outstanding job researching and writing about Wisconsin trees. We are excited to honor these talented young writers.”
More than 1,000 students participated in this year’s contest, sponsored by the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation along with Compeer Financial, Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, AgCountry Farm Credit Services, and GreenStone Farm Credit Services. State winners received plaques and a $250 cash prize, while district finalists earned medals and cash awards.
Photo Credit: wisconsin-agriculture-in-the-classroom
Categories: Wisconsin, Education