DuPage Farm Bureau launches free agricultural education program for 4,000 students
The DuPage County Farm Bureau is offering “Grow Your Own Food — A Container to Table Project,” an ambitious agricultural education endeavor in partnership with collaborators including the College of DuPage, Ball Horticulture Company, Midwest Groundcover, DuPage Foundation, Ace Hardware, Country Financial, and The DuPage County Fair Association.
This initiative is poised to make a significant impact on approximately 4,800 fourth-grade students throughout DuPage County this spring. The program encompasses a multifaceted approach, featuring a 15-minute educational video covering fundamental topics such as food production, transplanting, and plant care.
Complementing the video presentation is a concise lesson plan and an engaging hands-on tomato transplanting activity, ensuring an immersive learning experience for all participants.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of the program is its accessibility, made possible through the generous support of our partners. The entire initiative is offered free of charge to schools within the county, underscoring our shared commitment to fostering agricultural literacy and awareness within our community.
From May 5-9, the Farm Bureau and its partners will distribute project supplies to participating schools, kick-starting the educational journey.
Through the accompanying educational video, teachers and students will be guided through the lesson and transplanting activity, culminating in each student receiving their very own starter tomato plant to nurture throughout the summer.
To further enhance their experience, students will receive a growth chart, comprehensive plant care instructions, and a simple recipe to savor their cherry tomatoes. The farm bureau is encouraging educators and families to share their experiences and successes on the DuPage County Farm Bureau’s social media platforms.
As a fitting conclusion to this enriching program, each student will be granted a complimentary fair pass to showcase their cherished cherry tomato plant at the 2025 DuPage County Fair.
A special judging event will be held, complete with ribbons and exciting prizes, further celebrating the students’ dedication and newfound agricultural knowledge.
For more information about the “Grow Your Own Food — A Container to Table Project” and other initiatives by the DuPage County Farm Bureau, contact Kara Norton via dcfb.org.
About DuPage County Farm Bureau
The DuPage County Farm Bureau is a leading advocate for agricultural education and community engagement in DuPage County, Illinois. Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, the organization strives to promote the vital role of agriculture while nurturing future generations of agricultural stewards.