USE THE FOLLOWING DRAFT LETTER TO SEND TO YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP]
[Email Address]

[Date]

[Recipient's Name]
[Title]
[Department/Organization]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP]

Dear [Recipient's Name],

I am writing to you as a concerned teacher/stakeholder for agricultural literacy education and its vital role in our schools and communities. The Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Program has been instrumental in increasing agricultural literacy among students, educators, and families across the nation. However, the recent budget proposals have threatened essential funding for this invaluable program through the USDA-NIFA.

Agricultural literacy encompasses environmental stewardship, nutrition, and sustainability, equipping the next generation with the knowledge to make informed decisions about food systems and the environment. The Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Program has empowered educators to integrate these important themes into their curricula, reaching more than two million students every year.

The benefits of funding the Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Program extend beyond the classroom. By fostering an understanding of agriculture, we are cultivating future leaders who will tackle critical issues such as food security, climate change, and community development. Investing in agricultural literacy is an investment in our nation’s future.

I urge you to advocate for the restoration of Agriculture in the K-12 Classroom Program funding in the USDA-NIFA budget. This support will ensure that educators continue to receive the resources and training they need to inspire and engage students in authentic learning through agriculture.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. I look forward to your support in preserving and enhancing agricultural education for our youth.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Title/Organization, if applicable]
[Your Contact Information]