Students at Penn Yan Central School District had the opportunity to step outside the traditional classroom and into an immersive, real-world learning environment, thanks to a visit from the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition’s Mobile Dairy Experience.
About 200 students in grades 8 through 12, enrolled in middle and high school agriculture classes, participated in the interactive exhibit which provided a unique chance for students to explore New York’s dairy industry—an essential part of the state’s agricultural economy—through hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations.
The Mobile Dairy Experience, a 53-foot, state-of-the-art trailer, offers a full sensory learning environment dedicated to modern dairy farming. During their time inside the exhibit, Penn Yan students learned about how cows are housed and cared for, what they are fed, and how they are milked. Students even had the opportunity to try their hand at attaching a milking machine, gaining a firsthand understanding of the process.
“This was a great opportunity for my students to learn a little about a major part of New York agriculture,” said Carlie Bossard, an agriculture teacher at Penn Yan. “Advocacy is a large part of teaching, and I was very happy to welcome the Mobile Dairy Experience to Penn Yan.”
The visit is closely aligned with the district’s goal of helping students better understand where their food comes from and the industries that shape their local and state economy.
Students responded enthusiastically to the visit, particularly enjoying the chance to interact with the calf and explore the exhibit’s hands-on components. Many asked thoughtful questions during the guided portions of the tour and took time to engage with videos featuring professionals working in various areas of the dairy industry.
“Students really enjoyed meeting a calf and had many questions for the tour guides,” the teacher added. “They explored the hands-on activities and listened to videos from people in different careers in the dairy industry.”
The Mobile Dairy Experience continues to travel across New York State, visiting schools, fairs, and community events to promote agricultural literacy and provide insight into the dairy industry. Its stop at Penn Yan Central School District served as a memorable and educational experience connecting students to an industry that is vital to our region.