The University of Illinois Extension is highlighting its efforts to educate youth about agriculture.  Their “Ag In The Classroom” program takes engaging lessons, projects, and experiences directly to students as early as kindergarten.  Rebecca Niemeier, the Extension’s Christian and Montgomery County Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator, leads the effort.  She says she enjoys the work because of the critical role agriculture plays in our lives, as well as the fun interactions she has with students. 

The program’s setup allows Niemeier to craft lessons that are hands-on and creative, and she takes full advantage. 

Unlike other teaching jobs, Niemeier does not have summers off because her work is grant-funded.  Because of that, she spends summers working with other educators and refining lessons for the next year. 

More information on the program is available by calling the Extension’s Taylorville office at (217) 287-7246.

Rebecca Niemeier appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning show.