Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom has announced Susan Irwin, a STEAM teacher at Pioneer Elementary School in Parker, Colorado, as the recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Teacher Award.
This award recognizes Irwin’s exceptional efforts in integrating agriculture into her classroom curriculum, fostering agricultural literacy, and inspiring students to become conscientious contributors to a sustainable global society.
The award was presented during a visit by U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. Irwin, with over 15 years of teaching experience, has passionately integrated agriculture into her classroom through various programs and initiatives. From participating in the Discover Dairy Program and hosting guest speakers through CoAITC’s Literacy Project to initiating a poultry program and engaging in hydroponics, Irwin’s commitment to experiential learning has enriched the educational journey of her students.
As part of the award recognition, Irwin will receive a $500 monetary award from CoAITC and a trip to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, from June 24 to 27.
