SIOUX FALLS – South Dakota’s ag industry leaders and teachers will join forces this summer to develop new strategies for teaching students the importance of agriculture.

The first South Dakota Education  and  Agriculture Conference will take place June 8-9 at SDSU’s Raven Precision Agriculture Center in Brookings. The event – a collaboration of Ground Works/ S.D. Ag in the Classroom and South Dakota State University – aims to support classroom learning for grades 4-8 and middle school STEM instruction and collectively invest in a brighter future for all South Dakotans.

According to Rev. Tim Olsen, executive director, GW/SDAITC, “The goal of this unique conference is to nurture a new coalition of South Dakota educators and agriculture leaders who commit to partnering to enhance learner outcomes in local schools while telling the relevant story of South Dakota agriculture.”

The conference will feature interactive tours and demonstrations, keynote addresses from SD leaders in education and agriculture and a chance to connect and establish lasting relationships. Alumni from South Dakota Ag and Rural Leadership classes will work with educators in their specific communities to have a direct impact on the students they teach.

SDSU is offering up to two graduate credits and/or up to two CEU’s at a reduced rate. Register at www.groundworks-midwest.com.