AGRICULTURE EDUCATION
 

    We recommend that teacher-training units of Maryland public colleges include a mini-course in agriculture, and that state educational sub-divisions include an in-service day or days to instruct teachers and guidance counselors about agriculture. ‘05

    We commend the Maryland Commission on Education in Agriculture for its study and report concerning the enhancement of agricultural education in the state. We support the Commission's recommendations to improve and enhance education in agricultural programs throughout Maryland, especially the improved agricultural curriculum in Grades K-12 and the recommendations for new and upgraded facilities. We encourage the continued efforts of the Governor to expand and improve agricultural curriculum in the Maryland public school system. ’07

    We support the vocational education program in Maryland. We recommend that local boards of education, with state support, introduce an approved production agriculture program in Maryland junior/senior or senior high schools. We strongly recommend that the State board of education institute standards for vocational agricultural programs that include teaching agriculture, ag economics and general agri-business.’05

    We urge the introduction or expansion of agricultural programs in the community colleges throughout the state. ’07

    We support the Maryland Agriculture Education Foundation and its efforts to receive legislative funding from the state special fund appropriations and funding through grant-in-aid from the Maryland State Department of Education. ’06

    We support the Maryland Ag Tag and we believe that all fees derived from sales should continue to be used to support MAEF. '01

    We oppose the expenditure of public funds to promote animal rights and the use of educational materials in public schools that discourage the use of animal products. ’06