Agribusiness pros invited to inspire students

Feb 20

The West Michigan Works! Agribusiness Talent Council is inviting local farmers, food processors, and agribusiness professionals to help bring agriculture to life for young students. As part of the Spotlight on Ag Readers (SOAR) initiative, professionals will volunteer to spend 45 minutes in a K-5 classroom, reading an engaging agriculture-focused book, answering students' questions, and, if time permits, leading a hands-on activity. Volunteer registration is open through February 28.

March is National Agriculture and Reading Month, making it the perfect time to connect students with the world of agriculture.

”Agriculture is a vital part of our West Michigan economy and everyday lives, yet many young students have limited exposure to the industry beyond what they see in stores. Spotlight on Ag Readers initiative helps bridge that gap by connecting students with real-life professionals who grow our food, manage our natural resources, and contribute to our communities," said Carol Distel, Industry Council lead- Agribusiness, West Michigan Works!.

This year SOAR is especially seeking volunteer dairy farmers, milk and cheese producers, and ice cream makers, as well as volunteers from Christmas tree farming, apple growing, tree and nursery growing, and forestry. Volunteer opportunities are still open in Montcalm, Ottawa and Muskegon Counties where classrooms don’t yet have a volunteer reader assigned.

The selected books for 2025 are "Tales of the Dairy Godmother: Chuck’s Ice Cream Wish" (Grades K-2) and "The Tree Farmer" (Grades 3-5).

With 54 classrooms and 1,273 students across Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties signed up for the SOAR, agribusiness professionals have a chance to engage young minds, spark curiosity, and inspire future industry leaders.

"Spotlight on Ag Readers is a great opportunity for agribusiness professionals to inspire the next generation and showcase the many career possibilities within the industry," Distel said.

To register or learn more, visit www.wegrowmi.org/spotlight-on-ag-readers.