Midwest Dairy’s Fields of STEM program continues to gain momentum as educators share dairy-focused science lessons with peers across the Midwest and the nation. This fall, two Fields of STEM cohort members brought high-quality, Next Generation Science Standards-aligned instructional materials to major science education conferences, helping teachers see how dairy farming connects to real-world science concepts in engaging and meaningful ways.
These presentations not only showcased innovative classroom activities but also helped build broader understanding and trust in modern dairy farming by reaching educators who influence thousands of students every year.
Sharing Dairy-Focused Science in Kansas and Missouri
In late September, Kansas science educator Kelley Tuel presented at the Kansas Association of Biology Teachers conference. She shared the Media Mayhem lesson, an activity that teaches students how media messages can shape their understanding of food and agriculture. The lesson uses dairy as a familiar, everyday example to help students think critically about scientific claims, develop data literacy, and build stronger science communication skills.
A month later, Missouri high school science teacher Erin Snelling showcased another Fields of STEM lesson, Transfer Task: Are All Bacteria Harmful?, at the Science Teachers of Missouri conference. This activity helps students explore concepts like microorganisms, fermentation, and food safety, tying science directly to dairy production in a way that sparks curiosity and real-world connections.
National Reach Through the Biology Teachers Conference
On Nov. 1, Snelling expanded her audience even further by presenting Whey Protein is Legen’dairy in the Classroom! at the National Association of Biology Teachers conference in St. Louis. This session reached educators from across the country and highlighted how dairy-focused lessons can reinforce topics such as cellular processes, macromolecules, and nutrition.
Her session demonstrated how hands-on, food-based activities can make abstract scientific concepts more accessible and engaging for students.
Educators Value Food and Agriculture as Teaching Tools
After participating in the state-level sessions, attendees overwhelmingly agreed that exploring food production “is an engaging way for my students to learn important scientific concepts.” This feedback reinforces the value of Midwest Dairy’s investment in classroom-ready science materials that connect students to agriculture.
Through these conference presentations, Midwest Dairy continues to broaden the reach of its STEM resources, strengthen trust in dairy farming, and support educators who bring real-world science into their classrooms.