A project that began with a local grant and a passion for community storytelling is officially going national.
The Harrison School District Board of Education recently approved a travel request for teachers Stephanie Benton and Becca Jackson, along with Harrison High School student Lily Burns, to travel to Providence, Rhode Island, this June. The trio has been invited to present at the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference, where they will share the success of their "Homegrown Stories" initiative with educators from across the country.
"Homegrown Stories" was launched through a grant from the Harrison Public Schools Foundation. The project pairs students with local farmers to preserve agricultural history through the creation of original, published children’s books. Their first publication, Farmer Jack and the Never-Ending Puzzle, holds special significance for the team: student co-presenter Lily Burns is the daughter of "Farmer Jack" , making the project a true family legacy and a bridge between generations of Harrison farmers.
A standout feature of the Harrison presentation is the inclusion of student Lily Burns. By having a student co-present to a national audience of education professionals, our district is highlighting its commitment to authentic learning and "real-world" application.
"I love it when students like Lily get to go out and represent the Harrison School District and experience the world," noted Board President Mitch Magness during the February meeting. "but it’s just as important for the world to see the caliber of great students we are raising in Harrison.."
The selection for the National Conference serves as a powerful testament to the district’s innovative approach to education. It also demonstrates the tangible impact of the Harrison Public Schools Foundation, showing how local investments in teachers can grow into nationally recognized programs.
The team will travel to Rhode Island this June, with registration fees covered by National Ag in the Classroom organization.
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