Students attending Shawnee Public Schools’ Wolfpack Adventure Summer STEM program were treated to an unforgettable learning experience this June, thanks to a special visit from the Hiland Dairy Mobile Classroom. This unique event was made possible through the efforts of Julia Jesseph, Director of Child Nutrition for Shawnee Public Schools, whose coordination brought the interactive program to the district.
The Mobile Dairy Classroom, a division of the Southwest Dairy Museum, is a traveling outdoor classroom that delivers a hands-on agricultural education experience to students across the region. During the visit, trained instructors gave live milking demonstrations, shared how milk travels from farm to table, and led engaging discussions about dairy cows, nutrition, and the science behind milk production.
Students gathered outdoors to learn about the anatomy of dairy cows, the nutritional value of milk, and the technology used in modern milking and dairy safety practices. The program was presented in an age-appropriate, interactive format that seamlessly connected STEM subjects, such as math and science, with health, agriculture, and environmental responsibility.
“The Mobile Dairy Classroom was an amazing addition to our summer school program that gave students a fun, educational experience rooted in real-world concepts,” said Julia Jesseph.
The program, which reaches over 675,000 people annually at schools, fairs, and festivals, is provided at no cost to schools. It includes printed educational materials for both teachers and students to continue learning beyond the live presentation.
Shawnee Public Schools continues to seek innovative, hands-on opportunities to expand student learning. Thanks to the Hiland Dairy Mobile Classroom, students walked away with a better understanding of agriculture, nutrition, and where their food comes from, lessons that will stick with them well beyond the summer.