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Beyond the Midway: Building Partnerships while Exploring Educational Opportunities at County Fairs

Agricultural Economics & Community Development

Ashley Stonecipher
Agriculture and Food Systems Agent
UF/IFAS Extension
Winter Springs

Abstract

Annually, the Volusia County Fair extends an invitation to county schools for student field trips, which are typically self-guided and lack substantial educational value. Recognizing this as an opportunity for collaboration with the fair board, the UF/IFAS Extension office aimed to enhance these tours in 2023. Our objective was to offer approximately 100 youth a diverse array of educational activities and exhibits during the fair school tours, thereby supporting the fair while promoting 4-H and other Extension programs. Teachers, students, and parent/guardian chaperones embarked on a walking tour of the Volusia County Fairgrounds, guided by Extension agents. Emphasizing education, our focus areas included the large and small animal livestock barns, horticultural exhibits, and the honey bee display. Through facilitated discussions, reflections, and group activities, we enriched the learning experience. Additionally, 4-H members showcased their animal care and management expertise by exhibiting their animals, further educating their peers. The 2023 fair tour attracted 150 youth and adult volunteers, strengthening our relationship with the Volusia County Fair Board and garnering positive feedback from participants. Looking ahead to 2024, we plan to extend the school fair tours over two days and broaden the topics to include a segment on coastal ecosystems, along with highlighting the home skills area. Furthermore, we aim to conduct follow-up assessments with teachers to gauge the interest of 2023 tour attendees in participating in the fair this year. The fair tour provided teachers, students, and their parent/guardians with an enriching and interactive educational experience. This collaboration not only reinforced our partnership with the Volusia County Fair but also enhanced our presence within the community.

Authors: Ashley Stonecipher, Brittany Council-Morton, Chelsea Woodard, Carolyn Kovacs, Lisa Hamilton
  1. Ashley Stonecipher Agriculture and Food Systems Agent, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32724
  2. Brittany Council-Morton Urban Horticulture, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32724
  3. Chelsea Woodard 4-H Youth Development, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32724
  4. Carolyn Kovacs Florida Sea Grant, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32724
  5. Lisa Hamilton Family and Consumer Sciences, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32724