May 1, 2025 | Winnipeg, MB - This spring, Grades 6 to 8 classes across Canada embarked on an exciting adventure in sustainability as part of Agriculture in the Classroom Canada’s (AITC-C) Mission Explorium. Designed to ignite curiosity, problem solving, and teamwork, this nationwide program challenged students to create a sustainable community after landing on a deserted island.

Launched on February 17 and concluding in late April, Mission Explorium offered dynamic, cross-curricular activities combining science, math, language arts, visual arts, and career studies with the goal of building agriculture and food literacy. Students worked collaboratively to complete quests, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to compete for regional wins and the chance to vie for national glory.

AITC-C is thrilled to congratulate Kelli Fredlund's grade 7/8 class at James L. Alexander School from Saskatoon School District 13 in Saskatoon, on claiming top honors in the inaugural competition. Over 225 classes from British Columbia to the Maritimes and Northern Canada participated in Mission Explorium, showcasing incredible creativity, problem solving, and teamwork. The class dazzled a panel of agriculture and educator industry judges with their extraordinary imagination and innovative designs. From crafting an intricate sustainable food system to their artistic renderings, the class demonstrated an exceptional ability to think outside the box and bring their island vision to life. Their creativity shone through in every detail, making their submission a standout among a sea of talented contenders. The class was awarded an indoor garden generously donated by Plantaform for their inspiring achievement. To see their winning video, visit https://youtu.be/wr7-2rGNHLA.

We are proud to also recognize the outstanding efforts of the Class of A. Rheault from Carman Collegiate, Manitoba, and the Class of V. Hussey from Bayview Academy, Newfoundland and Labrador, with an Honourable Mention in the Mission Explorium Challenge. Both classes demonstrated exceptional creativity, scientific inquiry, and collaborative spirit, standing out among entries from across the country. Their innovative approaches and dedication to exploration exemplify the values at the heart of Mission Explorium, and we commend these students and their educators for their inspiring contributions to this year’s national competition.

March 24, 2025 – Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) is proud to announce the appointment of Denise Schmidt as its new Executive Director. With deep roots in agriculture and a career dedicated to collaboration and community-building, Schmidt steps into this role ready to strengthen the foundation of agricultural literacy across Canada.

Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) is proud to announce the appointment of Denise Schmidt as its new Executive Director. With deep roots in agriculture and a career dedicated to collaboration and community-building, Schmidt steps into this role ready to strengthen the foundation of agricultural literacy across Canada.

February 27, 2025 (Winnipeg, MB) - Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C) and its 10 provincial members are celebrating agriculture in classrooms across the country this March during the 14th annual Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month (CALM). This year marks a significant milestone as the Northwest Territories joins the celebration for the first time, showcasing agriculture education from coast to coast to coast.

CALM is a national initiative that connects students with farmers and agriculture professionals, bringing Canada’s rich and diverse agriculture and food story to life. Students from kindergarten to Grade 12 will engage in interactive activities, presentations and personal stories that foster a deeper understanding of where their food comes from.

AITC-C is also supporting the Territorial Agrifood Association in administering a new CALM program: a virtual art show. 

“With participation from the Northwest Territories, CALM represents the full spectrum of Canada’s agriculture and food landscape,” says Luree Williamson, Acting Executive Director of AITC-C. “This is an incredible opportunity to inspire students across the country by celebrating the diversity and innovation of Canadian agriculture.”

A key feature of CALM 2025 is a national social media campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of agriculture literacy and inspiring Canadians to explore agriculture’s role in their everyday lives. Throughout March, AITC-C social media channels will feature videos celebrating how agriculture shapes the way we live, work and eat.

Across Canada, provinces are gearing up for CALM 2025 with diverse activities to engage students in agriculture and food literacy. Programs include virtual field trips, classroom visits by industry professionals, hands-on activities, and innovative resources like mystery seed kits. Highlights include a new storybook launch in Newfoundland and Labrador, an agriculture expo in New Brunswick and "Blooming Wellness," a reading contest in British Columbia. From in-class workshops in Alberta to Ag Adventure Days in Prince Edward Island, these efforts showcase the collaboration and creativity driving agriculture education nationwide.

“By connecting young people to agriculture, we empower the next generation of leaders to sustain and grow this vital industry,” adds Williamson. “We’re deeply grateful to our partners, volunteers and educators for helping us bring agriculture into classrooms across the country.”

Last year’s CALM initiative delivered over 191,000 student experiences. With the inclusion of the Northwest Territories and hundreds of volunteers visiting classrooms across the country, AITC-C aims to exceed that number by providing engaging, hands-on learning opportunities for students nationwide.

About AITC-C

With a vision to create meaningful connections to agriculture and food, AITC-C is the national advocate for agriculture education, representing a collective of 10 provincial partner organizations who deliver agriculture education on the ground across Canada. AITC-C is the umbrella organization connecting the national network to facilitate sharing and collaboration and deliver accurate, balanced, and current resources. Visit 

November 1, 2024 (Winnipeg, MB) - November marks Canada Career Month, and Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-C), in collaboration with its ten provincial partners, is excited to celebrate by offering innovative career programs that connect youth to the diverse opportunities within the agriculture and agri-food sector.

Agriculture is much more than farming; it is a dynamic and multifaceted industry encompassing roles in technology, environmental science, business, engineering, food production and more. Through these programs, we aim to build career literacy and open doors to future careers for young Canadians, helping them understand the vast potential within the agriculture sector.

According to recent statistics from the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC):

• Approximately 2.5 million Canadians work in agriculture and agri-food.
• The agriculture sector contributes over $130 billion to Canada's GDP, making it one of the largest industries in the country.
• By 2029, it is projected that there will be a need for over 60,000 new workers in the agriculture and agri-food sectors due to retirements and industry growth.

"Our programs are designed to showcase the vast array of career opportunities within agriculture and agri-food," said Luree Williamson, Acting Executive Director, AITC-C. "By engaging youth and providing them with the knowledge and skills they need, we can inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and innovators."

“Our collaborative career programs aim to equip students with vital skills and insights, helping them navigate potential pathways in agriculture. Through interactive workshops, resources and hands-on experiences, students gain a deeper understanding of the roles that agriculture plays in everyday life and the career possibilities it offers.”

This Canada Career Month, we invite educators, students and parents to explore the myriad of career options available within the agriculture and agri-food sector. Together, we can foster a generation that not only understands but thrives in an industry that is essential to our economy and future sustainability.

For more information about Agriculture in the Classroom career programs and how to get involved, please visit www.thinkag.ca.