A Michigan partnership that’s helping students discover the journey of food from farm to table has earned national recognition for innovation through National Agriculture in the Classroom and CHS. Through its partnership with Kroger, Michigan Agriculture in the Classroom (MIAITC) was recently honored with the National Agriculture in the Classroom Innovation Award in Partnerships, recognizing a collaborative effort focused on increasing agricultural literacy and ending childhood hunger.
Beyond the national spotlight, MIAITC brought home a $2,500 cash prize to help support MIAITC’s continued efforts to expand agricultural literacy opportunities for Michigan students.
What began in 2024 with Kroger’s sponsorship of the Cereal Grains FARM Crate has grown into a multifaceted partnership that benefits classrooms and communities across Michigan. Together, MIAITC and Kroger have expanded educational opportunities for students while supporting efforts to ensure children have access to nutritious food.
The original Cereal Grains FARM Crate introduced elementary students to Michigan-grown wheat, from how grains are grown, harvested and processed to become foods we enjoy every day. Through hands-on lessons aligned with educational standards and a video field trip to the Krohn family farm, students gained a deeper appreciation of the farmers and agricultural professionals who make our food system possible.
As the partnership evolved, so did its impact. Today, MIAITC and Kroger work together to support agricultural literacy while also helping address childhood hunger — demonstrating how education and community support can work hand in hand. This dual focus reflects a shared commitment to investing in Michigan’s future by educating young learners and supporting families across the state, helping Kroger pack a million meals for those families in need.
Building on this success, Kroger has committed to sponsoring a newFARM Crate for 2026–2027: From Farm to Store will help students explore the journey food takes after it leaves the farm, highlighting transportation, food safety, distribution, retail and the many careers involved in getting fresh food from farms to grocery stores. The lessons will further strengthen students’ understanding of the food supply chain and the important role agriculture plays in their everyday lives.
What started as sponsorship of a single educational resource has grown into a lasting relationship that combines agricultural education with community impact. By leveraging Kroger’s commitment to education and hunger relief alongside MIAITC’s expertise in agricultural literacy, the partnership has created opportunities to reach thousands of students while supporting efforts to end childhood hunger.
The Innovation Award in Partnerships recognizes organizations that build meaningful collaborations resulting in measurable, lasting impact. This national recognition affirms the value of partnerships that connect agriculture, education, and community service in innovative ways.
MIAITC is grateful to Kroger for its continued commitment to agricultural literacy and to Michigan’s youth. Their ongoing support allows us to develop engaging educational resources, expand our reach into classrooms, and inspire the next generation to better understand where their food comes from and the people who produce it.
As we look ahead toward launching From Farm to Store, we celebrate not only an award-winning partnership but also the many educators, farmers, volunteers and community partners who help make these programs possible. Together, we are growing agricultural literacy, strengthening communities, and creating lasting connections between Michigan agriculture and the students who will shape its future.
MIAITC is funded by the Michigan Foundation for Agriculture.
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