Wisconsin’s Adopt a Cow Connects Students to Farming

By Blake Jackson

Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) and Discover Dairy are inviting educators to sign up for the 2025-26 Adopt a Cow program, a free and engaging way to bring agriculture into the classroom.

The program pairs students with a real Wisconsin calf and her farm family, offering a year-long educational experience.

“Adopt-A-Cow provides an engaging way to connect elementary school students to agriculture and learn about their farmer next door,” said Erika Schade, DFW’s School & Community Programs Manager. “Last year, we reached 55,000 students in over 1,500 classrooms, helping them gain a better understanding of how dairy products reach their tables.”

Each participating classroom is assigned a calf and receives regular updates in the form of photos, videos, farm stories, and educational resources.

Students learn about the calf’s diet, living environment, and daily care, as well as the farmers’ role in maintaining her wellbeing. Activities and lesson plans, many aligned with Common Core standards, integrate the experience into subjects like science, math, and reading.

The program also introduces students to the economic significance of dairy farming in Wisconsin, where the industry contributes $52.8 billion annually. By connecting young learners with the source of their food, Adopt a Cow builds awareness of both the agricultural process and the people behind it.

Educators have shared positive feedback about the program’s impact. “My students LOVED seeing the updates and pictures,” said Avery H., a participating teacher. “My students always asked for updates and had tons of great questions.”

“I am an art teacher in a rural school,” added Kristen S. “Being able to bring the community into the classroom and do art projects with the students was very educational and fun. I loved the curiosity of my students and the love they have for the cows. I will continue to do this as long as I can for my students.”

Farmers also find the program rewarding. “Being part of the Adopt a Cow program is a wonderful way for us to share the day-to-day of what we do on the farm and how we care for the animals,” said Tasha Schleis of Schleis Dairy Farm.

This year’s participating farms include Schleis Farms, Nellie Holsteins, OrthRidge Jerseys, and McFarlandale Dairy. Educators and youth leaders can register at www.DiscoverDairy.com/adopt by Sept. 15.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-peopleimages