In accordance with Arkansas Act 243, we are pleased to announce the launch of the Agricultural Education Pilot Program in public elementary schools. This program is aimed at expanding agricultural education and fostering a better understanding of agriculture for young learners. The Division of Career and Technical Education, in collaboration with the Arkansas Farm Bureau Federation will select a minimum of six (6) elementary schools to participate in the pilot program for the 2025-2026 school year.

Please be aware that there is no additional funding available for the implementation of this program. Schools will be selected through an application process, and the selected schools will implement the standards outlined below.

Application Information:

• Opens: January 1, 2025
• Closes: February 15, 2025
• Application Link
• Notification of Selected Schools: March 1, 2025

Interested schools are required to complete the application in full. Educators selected to participate in the pilot program will need to attend mandatory training sessions, the details of which will be provided upon acceptance into the program.

Grade Levels & Standards Included in the Pilot Program:

Kindergarten -- 1st Grade -- 2nd Grade -- 3rd Grade -- 4th Grade -- 5th Grade -- 6th Grade 

For any questions or more information, please contact:

• Tim Johnston, ADE Contact – tim.johnston@ade.arkansas.gov
• Donette Spann, Farm Bureau Contact – donette.spann@arfb.com

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