The following was submitted by Ann Furze, an Ag in the Classroom “Teacher of the Year” who is dedicated to agricultural education in AND out of the classroom.  Ann has taught science at the Danforth School in the Syracuse City School District for 25years;   20 years in elementary and 5 years in middle school.  Her 35 years of teaching experience certainly added to her expertise.  Ann has taken that expertise, and her dedication, creativity and enthusiasm for agriculture and spread her zeal for the Ag in the Classroom Program.  Her impact over the last five years of working with the program has been immense.  Everyone within the ag sector need to thank dedicated teachers everywhere.  (Sandie Prokop)

NYFB Members Provide Different Looks at Agriculture to Syracuse City School District Educators

The week of July 28 - August 1, 2008 was filled with a multitude of agricultural learning experiences for thirty five educators in the Syracuse City School District. Students of the district in service course entitled, “Food; The Bread and Butter of Your Classroom,”  conducted by district educator Ann Furze, participated each day in either direct classroom instruction or on site trips to various Farm Bureau members’ farms.

Richard Linck, of Linck Apaires, Marcellus, NY provided opportunities to view the honey extraction process as well as observe active bee hives and learn of honey bees’ amazing abilities.

Ron and Beth Southwick, of Treasures of Joy Farm, Nedrow, NY opened their hearts and farm for all to learn and observe a pastured poultry, beef and pig operation as well as a “semi” organic garden.  While there, Larry Fleckenstein, VP of Onondaga County Farm Bureau, gave an overview of the structure and function on the Bureau.  Julia Maum, of Salvere Farm, Marietta NY, enlightened class members of the purpose and location of various CSA’s in the Syracuse area.

The class finale was a tour of Fesko Farms, Skaneateles, NY, provided by Chris Fesko. Students were blown away by the technology, time and financial commitment needed to operate a large dairy farm. Teachers also visited Chris’s Farm Discovery Center and learned of classroom field trip opportunities.