(Chelsy Champlin, agricultural educator and FFA advisor at Dexter High School, Dexter USD 471. Photo: Rural Schools Collaborative website)

Chelsy Champlin, an agricultural educator and FFA advisor at Dexter High School, Dexter USD 471, has been selected as a Rural Schools Collaborative, Grants in Place 2026 cohort awardee. 

According to the Rural Schools Collaborative’s website, Champlin and her family raise beef cattle and poultry. They also enjoy gardening and are active in their local community and 4-H. Her project, Farm to Fork – Chickens, “will immerse students in the world of raising poultry and connect them to local food systems.” 

“With a focus on animal science and sustainable farming practices, the project will encourage significant research on animal care requirements, agricultural suppliers, and will engage students directly in the care and maintenance of growing chickens as students monitor chick growth, behavior, and health,” the website states. “Farm to Fork– Chickens will build skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork, while fostering a deeper understanding of where food comes from and the responsibilities of animal caretakers as students form authentic connections between classroom learning and the local agricultural community.” 

Contact Anthony Meals, anthony.meals@ksde.gov, for more information about agricultural education grant opportunities.