AGRICULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM CANADA
Young Minds, Big Ideas: Saskatoon Students Crowned National Champs in Mission Explorium's Agriculture and Food Challenge

This spring, Grades 6 to 8 classes across Canada embarked on an exciting adventure in sustainability as part of Agriculture in the Classroom Canada's (AITC-C) Mission Explorium. Designed to ignite curiosity, problem solving, and teamwork, this nationwide program challenged students to create a sustainable community after landing on a deserted island.

Launched on February 17 and concluding in late April, Mission Explorium offered dynamic, cross-curricular activities combining science, math, language arts, visual arts, and career studies with the goal of building agriculture and food literacy. Students worked collaboratively to complete quests, applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to compete for regional wins and the chance to vie for national glory.

AITC-C is thrilled to congratulate Kelli Fredlund's grade 7/8 class at James L. Alexander School from Saskatoon School District 13 in Saskatoon, on claiming top honors in the inaugural competition. Over 225 classes from British Columbia to the Maritimes and Northern Canada participated in Mission Explorium, showcasing incredible creativity, problem solving, and teamwork. The class dazzled a panel of agriculture and educator industry judges with their extraordinary imagination and innovative designs. From crafting an intricate sustainable food system to their artistic renderings, the class demonstrated an exceptional ability to think outside the box and bring their island vision to life. Their creativity shone through in every detail, making their submission a standout among a sea of talented contenders. The class was awarded an indoor garden generously donated by Plantaform for their inspiring achievement. To see their winning video, visit https://youtu.be/wr7-2rGNHLA.

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We are proud to also recognize the outstanding efforts of the Class of A. Rheault from Carman Collegiate, Manitoba, and the Class of V. Hussey from Bayview Academy, Newfoundland and Labrador, with an Honourable Mention in the Mission Explorium Challenge. Both classes demonstrated exceptional creativity, scientific inquiry, and collaborative spirit, standing out among entries from across the country. Their innovative approaches and dedication to exploration exemplify the values at the heart of Mission Explorium, and we commend these students and their educators for their inspiring contributions to this year's national competition.

"At Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, we believe in empowering the next generation with knowledge and creativity to tackle real-world challenges," says Denise Schmidt, Executive Director of AITC-C. "Mission Explorium not only inspires students to learn about agriculture's critical role but also encourages them to think innovatively about our food system, sustainability, problem solving, and collaboration. We're proud to see such enthusiasm and ingenuity from students across the country."

Agriculture in the Classroom Canada is thrilled to announce that Mission Explorium will return in Spring 2026, bringing new opportunities for students to embark on this inspiring journey of sustainability, problem solving, and innovation. AITC-C extends heartfelt gratitude to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for their generous support in making this initiative possible.