Checkoff programs offer five no-cost teaching materials for young learners 

By Ben Linder 

Indiana corn and soybean farmers know that today’s students are tomorrow’s consumers, educators and decision-makers. One of the most impactful ways farmers’ checkoff dollars work for farmers is through education — helping students understand where their food comes from and the role corn and soy play in everyday life. 

Through the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and Indiana Soybean Alliance education resource website, thousands of educators and classrooms gain access to high-quality, agriculture-focused materials each year. Find it here.

Here are the top five educational resources that make the biggest impact: 

Virtual learning courses 

Sponsored virtual learning programs through the Indiana State Fairgrounds bring agriculture directly into the classroom, no matter where students are located. These interactive, standards-aligned lessons help teachers confidently explain topics like plant science, sustainability, and how corn and soy are used beyond the farm. 

Field trips 

Checkoff-supported field trips to Fair Oaks Farms or the Glass Barn at the Indiana State Fairgrounds give students a hands-on learning opportunity. 

These experiences help connect classroom lessons to real-world farming and show students the people behind their food. 

New books for order 

Age-appropriate, agriculture-themed books are one of the most requested resources by educators. Through the Books for Order program, farmers can request books at no cost for their ag events or local schools. 

These books introduce young readers to farming and crop production — building agricultural literacy at an early age. Interested educators should check out the two newest books. 

Soy crayons 

Available at no cost; soy crayons are a small item with a big message. Made with soy oil, these crayons help students learn that soybeans are used in more than food and feed. 

They’re a fun, tangible way to show how farmer-grown crops become everyday products, reinforcing the value of soybeans in a way students remember. 

Classroom materials 

From lesson plans and activity sheets to posters and experiment guides, classroom materials are designed to make teaching agriculture easy and engaging. These resources support educators year-round and ensure consistent, accurate messaging about corn and soy production. 

Together, these five resources represent a strong return on farmers’ checkoff investment — educating students, supporting teachers and strengthening trust in agriculture for the next generation.