The Tyrone Area FFA Chapter brought the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau’s Mobile Ag Lab back to Tyrone Area Elementary School for the fifth consecutive year on October 1-5.  The mobile lab gives young students the opportunity to learn about agriculture in a fun, hands-on way, and gives FFA students an opportunity to teach science and agriculture.

More than 490 students in first through fourth grade engaged in lessons that focused on the science of popcorn and hand washing. The visit was made possible by a $2000 grant from the Land O’ Lakes Company and $500 from the Soybean Council.

“This is yet another example of how these students are helping to make a positive impact on agriculture. We are grateful to the Land O’ Lake Company and the Soybean Council for approving grants for our chapter to be able to bring this lab to the elementary school,” said Tyrone agricultural educator Tiffany Hoy, “The FFA members are already excited to bring the lab back for a sixth consecutive year in 2019.”

The first and second-grade students learned where popcorn is grown, how it is grown, and about the chemical reaction that makes it pop.  They also learned about the scientific concepts of density and matter.

The third and fourth graders were shown various ways to wash their hands and created their own lab experiments to collect data. The students learned how to properly wash their hands to eliminate germs.

However, the elementary students were not the only learners in the lab. Tyrone FFA members assisted the lead teachers in the lessons, developing their communication and leadership skills.

“The ag lab was interesting because I was able to help instruct students, rather than being instructed,” said senior Guy Williams.

Many of the high school students also found it interesting to be on the other side of the classroom.

“I have a better appreciation of what my teachers go through each day, but it was fun to work with elementary students,” said sophomore Anthony Dalesio.

For the seniors, this was the last mobile lab of their high school career. For them, the day was bittersweet.

“I’m sad this is my last year of assisting with the Mobile Ag Lab because I enjoy interacting with the kids and have had the opportunity to see elementary students grow over the past four years.  I also learned some new ideas and found this to be one of my favorite ag events,” said senior Reilly Ronan.