Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County
Alyssa Dean, Farm to School / Ag in the Classroom Educator
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County, in collaboration with NYS Ag in the Classroom, worked with local Allegany County Schools to celebrate NY Ag Literacy Week (March 17–21). This week-long event highlights the importance of agriculture and educates youth about farming. To honor New York’s agricultural heritage, volunteers across Allegany County read an agricultural-themed book to second graders and other participating elementary students. After the reading, students and teachers engage in hands-on lessons and activities that deepen their understanding of agriculture. Each participating school receives a copy of the book, which is donated to the classroom library with a bookplate recognizing the New York Ag in the Classroom Program. Allegany County Schools have embraced this program since its inception in 2005.
Ag Literacy Week 2025 focused on pumpkins! Students followed the journey of a single seed, watching it grow from sprout to vine, eventually producing a beautiful pumpkin. The story culminates in a heartwarming celebration where Molly, the main character, turns her pumpkin into a delicious pie to share with others in gratitude. Written by Sue Heavenrich, a teacher and lifelong lover of biology and gardening from Tioga County, NY, the book serves as a perfect introduction to the world of agriculture.
Thanks to the support of dedicated volunteers, we were able to achieve participation from all 12 county school districts this year, with 52 classes and 1,226 students taking part in the Ag Literacy Week experience – a significant increase compared to previous years! Each child had the chance to plant their own pumpkin seeds, just like Molly did in the book.
Are you an educator in Allegany County looking to bring more hands-on agriculture experiences to your classroom? Reach out to Alyssa Dean, Farm to School Coordinator / Ag in the Classroom Educator, at ald243@cornell.edu.
