Kentucky Farm Bureau announced today that Laken Falwell, K-5 library media specialist and STEM teacher at North Calloway Elementary School, is the recipient of KFB’s 2024 Excellence in Ag Literacy Award.

The Excellence in Ag Literacy Award recognizes a certified pre-kindergarten through 12th grade teacher who excels in their efforts to incorporate agricultural concepts through their academic studies.

Falwell is recognized for her ongoing efforts to develop, plan and implement immersive hands-on projects, activities and lessons that give North Calloway students countless opportunities to learn about agriculture in a way that is both educational and fun. 

She collaborates with local farmers, agricultural agencies and community stakeholders to extend learning beyond her library classroom through enrichment programs, guest speakers and special projects that actively engage students in learning about animals and agriculture, including Dairy Cow Week and Cow Day. In addition, her hands-on lessons have featured the life cycle of pumpkins, the life cycle of chickens, animals petting zoos, pollination, soil types and layers, as well as annual activities on Earth Day and the Kentucky Derby.

“Laken Falwell is truly deserving of this award, as she has gone above and beyond to foster agricultural literacy and inspire a love for farming and the environment among our students,” said Melinda Hendley, North Calloway Elementary Principal. “Her commitment to integrating agriculture into our school curriculum in creative and meaningful ways has made a lasting impact on our school and the broader community.”