SSSA teacher grants expand soil science learning across North America

What are teachers who received grants saying?

“The best learning happens when students can visualize the data…”

“pH analyzers are of great help, and we use them in all of the investigations we conducted.”

“I think the best part of learning during these labs is the discussions [students] had while working on their analysis and drawing their conclusions. Learning about soil analysis was also a game changer as they learned about carbon, water, nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, and it gave them an opportunity to connect the cycles to soil.”

^{—Amarapu Biology Program, Texas}
 

“These hands-on experiences directly supported their understanding of core soil and plant science concepts, including the role of soil structure and organic matter, water retention, nutrient availability, and the way soil quality influences the final agricultural product.”

^{—Andrea Howard, Eastham Elementary School, Massachusetts}
 

“The students were the ones who picked the topic of soil quality with a focus on salt and nitrate phosphates. They also picked all of our field sites and conducted all the sampling and testing themselves.”

^{— APW Junior/Senior High School, New York}
 

“Our students became soil detectives.”

“In a collaborative cross-circular effort, our specialist team, including Ag-tech, Art, Music, Library, and PE, incorporated the Soil Mystery lessons into all aspects of engaging students in the classroom and outside.”

^{—Daniel K. Inouye Elementary School, Hawaii}
 

“Students were highly engaged in real world science.”

^{—Mary Yangzon, Fort Morgan High School, Colorado}
 

“Several students are now pursuing soil and environmental science careers.”

“One student joined the Envirothon team as the “soil expert” and has shared what he knows with the whole Envirothon team of 16.”

^{—Meredith Ashworth, Rhode Island}
 

“This grant allowed us to expand our soils class dramatically.”

“Students gather soil samples from the garden, forest, and creek bed. The students are surprised at all the different colors that soil can be.”

^{—Michael Shanahan, Shady Creek Outdoor School, California}
 

“Youth gained awareness of their role in environmental stewardship.”

“Students reflected on how human actions affect soil health and sustainability.”

“These activities promoted experiential learning, allowing students to directly apply soil science concepts and better understand ecological relationships.”

^{—Somerset County 4-H, New Jersey}