The supply lists are out, the sales are on, and afternoon storms are in full swing: this can only mean one thing–it’s back-to-school in Florida! This year, when students return to school, they might get to meet someone much more interesting than a hamster or lizard for their class pet! Florida teachers are signing up to virtually “adopt” calves and cowboys for their classrooms. Both programs, “Adopt-a-Cow” and “Adopt-a-Cowboy”, aim to teach students about animal agriculture, the benefits of eating beef and dairy products, and the role farms and ranches play in protecting the environment and bolstering the economy in the Sunshine State. There is still time to sign up for these interactive agriculture programs for the 2025-2026 school year. Just follow the links in the QR codes to join the fun this year!
Adopt-a-Cowboy gives students in fourth grade the opportunity to learn about being a cowboy from the real experts: a cowboy, himself! In some counties, students can meet their class cowboy in person at local youth agricultural events facilitated by volunteers, industry professionals, and UF IFAS extension agents. Alternatively, students can virtually interact with their cowboy through videos and opportunities to connect. Whether online or face-to-face, cowboys try to make these visits fun for the students with whip-cracking and roping demonstrations or virtual tours around their home ranch. Meet-and-greets are certainly a fan-favorite; however, the Adopt-a-Cowboy program was designed to be more than a one-day experience. Curriculum guides help teach core subjects like math, science, and reading through the lens of the cowboy’s day-to-day life. Cowboys also teach students about how they care for the animals, the land, and how beef is part of a healthy diet. Reinforced throughout the school year, this program serves as a great way to apply education to the real world and connect students with the food supply.
The Adopt-a-Cow program was the inspiration for the Adopt-a-Cowboy program. However, there are a few differences. First, baby calves are a lot cuter than most cowboys and this program is designed for students of all ages! Adorable dairy heifer calves make for the perfect class pet for students (and teachers). At the beginning of the school year, a few calves are enrolled into the program as newborns. Classrooms are then assigned a calf to follow along with throughout the school year! Over the years, thousands of Florida students have learned about the dairy industry through the eyes of calves: Cookie, Glenda, Supernova, Hazelnut, Suni, and Simone. These girls teach students about dairy breeds, milk production, and farm management practices. Students watch them grow up and can ask the farmer questions through the mail or in digital platforms. Each year, farmers love the art they receive depicting the calves on the farm! Throughout the year, students also get various opportunities to snuggle or pet their calf at agricultural events for youth and livestock expositions. The Adopt-a-Cow program includes structured curriculum to use your cute class pet as a unique learning tool!
Whether it’s cool cowboys or cuddly calves, these two programs meet at the intersection of education and real-world agriculture. Adopt-a-Cow and Adopt-a-Cowboy are innovative and creative additions that fit every classroom because everyone eats! Being a conscious consumer can start in the classroom by learning about how animal-sourced foods are produced.
Scan the QR codes or click on the pictures to get signed up!
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