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We support an
effective, systematic instructional program about agriculture in our public
schools. We believe the curriculum should include “Introduction to Agriculture
Science” starting in the middle school and continuing into high school to
generate awareness of the importance of agriculture to our society and to ensure
future generations of well-trained leaders for the agricultural industry. ’08
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
The public needs to be made aware of the
importance of the preservation of agricultural land for a totally healthy
environment. We encourage more farm city festivals, including farm tours and
educational displays so the general public can have a better understanding of
how food is produced. ’08
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. ’08
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
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