Moore County teacher recognized by Texas Farm Bureau

(FRISCO, Texas)—Agriculture can be a mystery to students, but one passionate and innovative teacher works to bring agricultural concepts to life in her classroom.

For that, Lori Garrett of Cactus Elementary in Dumas was named Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) 2017 Agriculture in the Classroom Outstanding teacher. The award was presented during TFB’s Annual Meeting in Frisco today.

Nominated by Moore County Farm Bureau, Garrett received the award for her exceptional work to incorporate agriculture into her classroom lesson plans and activities.

Garrett takes a unique and innovative approach to student engagement and education as the science and enrichment teacher responsible for pre-kindergarten through fourth grade.

Three years ago, she developed and implemented a curriculum for Cactus Elementary that engages students in ways that allow them to work hands-on at their individual levels. The curriculum is implemented through a rotation that guarantees all students dedicated science time. 

The enrichment portion of the program for select students uses project-based learning to engage students in science, technology, mathematics, reading and writing, while improving the school and community. With Garrett’s guidance, the students have developed a recycling program, built compost bins and planned and installed garden beds for the Cactus Elementary Community Garden Program.

“Through creative, hands-on lesson plans and classroom activities, Lori sparks interest and passion for agriculture in her students,” TFB President Russell Boening said. “She incorporates lessons that include how agriculture affects each of the students.”

Garrett graduated from Texas A&M University at Galveston with a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and later received her teaching certificate from iTeach Texas, an online accredited certification course. She has been teaching for nearly six years. 

As the wife of a farmer, Garrett has a personal interest in ensuring her students understand the importance of agriculture. 

“Lori is building a passionate foundation for agriculture and science,” Boening said. “She’s showing students how the work farmers and ranchers do creates jobs, careers and products outside the farm.”

In recognition of her accomplishment, Garrett will receive a $600 cash award, as well as an expense-paid trip to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference next summer in Maine. The nominating county Farm Bureau also will receive a $400 cash award.