IALF recognizes Kalona second-grade teacher for incorporating agriculture into classroom lessons.

Kerri Bell, a second-grade teacher at Mid-Prairie East Elementary School in Kalona, has been named the recipient of the Iowa Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award. 

Presented by the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation (IALF), the award celebrates educators who effectively incorporate agricultural literacy into classrooms, helping students connect with Iowa’s rich farming heritage. 

Bell emerged as the top candidate among elementary, middle school and high school teachers from across Iowa. She was honored during a ceremony at the IALF board of directors’ meeting last month in Ankeny. 

Now in her 30th year of teaching, Bell began her career at St. James School in Washington before joining Kalona Schools in 1997. 

“Kerri exemplifies how agriculture can be seamlessly integrated into classroom learning,” said Kelly Foss, IALF executive director. “Her ability to connect students with real-world agricultural experiences not only helps them understand the importance of farming but also its role in their daily lives. 

“She has created meaningful opportunities for her students to learn and grow, both inside and outside the classroom, enhancing their future career prospects. By addressing real-world challenges, Kerri helps students grasp global issues and see how small solutions can make a big difference.” 

Ag literacy outcomes

Bell incorporates the National Agricultural Literacy Outcomes (NALOS) into various areas of her classroom curriculum. Through agriculture and the environment, she helps students understand the relationship between farming and the environment by incorporating activities that highlight sustainable farming practices. 

Students discuss how farmers manage natural resources like water for crops and livestock. 

Through a unit on plants and animals, she uses programs like Adopt-a-Farmer where students gain a deeper understanding of where their food comes from. They explore the roles of livestock such as cows in providing food and other products. 

Weaving these NALOS themes into everyday lessons, she helps students build meaningful connections be­­tween agriculture, the environment and their daily lives. 

“My goal is to inspire my students to view agriculture as an essential part of their lives while fostering an appreciation for the systems and people that sustain our communities,” said Bell. “To stay current on agricultural  education trends, I actively participate in the Iowa Agriculture Literacy Foundation professional development workshops and value the resources they provide.” 

The Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award also emphasizes the significance of community outreach and involvement, honoring educators who actively collaborate with local farms and agricultural organizations to showcase their dedication to agriculture within their communities and throughout Iowa. 

Bell has cultivated strong partnerships with local farmers and agricultural organizations such as Washington County 4-H, Washington County ISU Extension, Mid-Prairie FFA, Kalona Historical Village and the Iowa Corn Growers Association, creating unique opportunities for her students to engage with agricultural leaders and local resources. 

Bell will receive a $500 stipend to support her continued efforts of integrating agriculture into her classroom curriculum. She will also attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom conference to be held in Minneapolis in June. 

“Kerri’s dedication to agricul­tural education exemplifies the mission of IALF to empower future generations with the knowledge and appreciation for agriculture’s vital role in their lives,” Foss added.