In this issue of our BCAITC Teacher Champion series, we profile BC teacher Alicia Downey. Discover her passion for educating students about BC agriculture, food, and the environment.

Q: What school do you teach? A: I teach at Flex Academy in Kelowna, BC.

Q: What grade(s) do you teach? A: I teach Grade 3/4 and 4/5.

Q: How and when did you first learn about BCAITC? A: My friend introduced me to BCAITC last year.

Q: How long have you been teaching students about BC agriculture and food? A: I have been teaching students about BC agriculture and food since I began my journey as a teacher last september.

Q: What are the most important things that you want your students to learn about BC agriculture and food? A: I want my students to understand the journey of food—from how and where things grow, to the hands that cultivate them, to the ways they arrive on our plates. Learning about the origins of their food and the unique agricultural practices across BC connects them with the land, the seasons, and the vital role local farms play in sustaining our communities.
 

Q: BCAITC has over 500 free downloadable resources including lesson plans, activities, videos, recipes, and more! What is your favourite BCAITC resource and why? A: One of my favorite BCAITC resources is "A Day with Yayah", which beautifully blends storytelling with science. It offers a captivating look at the knowledge of wild and cultivated plants. The story draws students in while seamlessly connecting them to scientific concepts, sparking curiosity about plant identification, ecosystems, and sustainable practices in a hands-on, engaging way. It’s a perfect blend of narrative and educational content!

Q: What is your favourite BCAITC program and why? A: One of my favorite programs is the Ag Adventures Program, where students dive into a hands-on agricultural experience that brings classroom lessons to life. This unique tour under the Ag Adventures program allows students to explore everything from planting to harvesting, fostering a deep understanding of sustainable agriculture and the dedication that goes into food production. It's incredible to see student's excitement as they connect with the land, gain practical skills, and develop a newfound appreciation for the journey of food from farm to table. The tour truly embodies the essence of experiential learning and makes a lasting impact on young minds.

Q: Describe an agriculture or food-based project/program you have implemented in your classroom/school recently. A: Last year, we had a wonderful experience with the Planting a Promise program, with students from Kindergarten to Grade 5, allowing them to experience hands-on planting and care for growing plants. This year, I’m excited to introduce the Spuds in Tubs program to my Grade 3 to 5 classes, where students will have the chance to plant, grow, and harvest their own potatoes. This project will not only engage them in the science of plant growth but also help them connect with the food they eat through a tangible, rewarding process.

Q: Do you have any advice for other educators on how to integrate agriculture and food education into their curriculum? A: Just do it! Don't let the fear of a little mess hold you back. Integrating agriculture and food education into your curriculum can be a wonderfully chaotic adventure, filled with hands-on learning and discovery. It’s in those messy moments where the most meaningful connections to food and agriculture are made, sparking curiosity and engagement among students. So go ahead—take that leap, and watch as your classroom transforms into a vibrant space of exploration and growth.

About the Teacher Champion Series: This monthly BCAITC series features BC teachers and school staff who are passionate about providing agriculture and food education to K-12 students. For more information, contact BCAITC Communications Coordinator, communications@aitc.ca.