The Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation (IALF) is now accepting nominations for its annual Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award. 

The award honors a non-vocational PreK-12 teacher who goes above and beyond to bring agriculture to life in the classroom. Last year’s winner, Kerri Bell of Mid-Prairie East Elementary, helps her second-grade students explore farming, sustainability and food systems through hands-on lessons and programs like Adopt-a-Farmer. 

The 2025 award recipient will receive up to $1,500 (covering conference and travel-related expenses) to attend the 2026 National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Providence, Rhode Island.  

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Dec. 1. Teachers can apply directly or be nominated by community members, colleagues or agriculture advocates. All nominated teachers must complete an official application.  

“Agriculture can be the perfect vehicle to teach science, social studies, math and language arts in a way that connects to students’ lives,” said Kelly Foss, IALF executive director. “This award shines a spotlight on Iowa’s most creative teachers who inspire students to understand where their food, fiber and energy come from.”  

Educators who integrate agriculture show students how food production connects to health, energy, the environment and STEM careers. The Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award highlights these efforts and amplifies the importance of agriculture literacy statewide. 

For nomination forms and applications, visit

www.iowaagliteracy.org under the “news” tab.

The Iowa winner will represent Iowa at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award program.