Donald Danforth Plant Science Center

Current Issue: Many K-14 Students in Rural and Urban Communities Have Little Exposure to Real Agricultural Research, Even as Society Faces Urgent Challenges Likepests,diseases, and the Need for Nutritiousfood. Although Some Schools Now Have Plant Growth Facilities and Agricultural Infrastructure, Teachers Often Lack the Skills and Confidence to Guide Students in Hands?on Research. This Leaves a Critical Gap in Preparing the Next Generation to Understand and Innovate in Agriculture.approaches and Methods: Our Professional Development for Agricultural Literacy Project Will Support K-14 Steam Educators From Rural and Urban Communities in Missouri. Teachers Will Take Part in Agricultural Research Workshops, Visit Local Agricultural Industries, and Participate in Mentored Summer Research Experiences. They Will Receive Ready?to?use Curriculum Materials, Mini?grants to Launch Student?led Projects, and Join a Community of Practice to Share Ideas and Support One Another.expected Impact: by Equipping Teachers With Skills and Confidence, This Project Will Help Bring Authentic Agricultural Research Experiences Into Classrooms and School Greenhouses. Students Will Gain Hands?on Opportunities to Explore Agriculture, Think Critically, and Collaborate on Real?world Challenges. Over Time, We Expect This Work to Spark Student Interest in Agricultural Careers, Foster Innovation, and Strengthen Agricultural Literacy Across Communities That Need It Most.