Judy Culbertson

Ag in the Classroom has really been my life for the last 30 years. It is a "way of life" for me and each of my family members. I started working for California Farm Bureau Federation with the YF&R and Membership programs. This was the time when San Francisco Unified School District was reaching out to the Farm Bureau asking for assistance planning a field trip for their educators. There was immediate buzz and support for the concept of helping to educate our urban neighbors about where their food really comes from. And, it continues today.

The first San Francisco Farm Day was amazing—and fun! That is one of the real beauties of AITC—we are teaching and learning and having fun every step of the way. For many years, teachers have claimed this program changed their way of teaching, and the fact that agriculture is so real in all of our lives, every single day, they can provide life long lessons to their students, and have fun while they do it proves it. Everybody enjoys eating!

The true value of Ag in the Classroom is seen now and will continue to be seen in the future. If we can pique children's interest when they are young and inquisitive, we are confident that when they grow up, they'll be open to learning all sides of an issue before casting their support.

I worked with Mark Linder from the beginning—starting with Summer Ag Institute and adding Farm Days in both northern and southern California urban areas and expanding in so many areas—especially in the development of resources. The Teacher Resource Guide is a unique and universal book that is revered and used throughout the nation. Our goal is to provide support to every educator so they can include food and farming in their classroom with confidence.

It has been said that if you enjoy your work, you won't work a day in your life. I am blessed to have Ag in the Classroom be my life and to be surrounded by others who feel the same way.

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