INCREASING AND EMPOWERING WOMEN AND MINORITIES (WAMS) IN PLANT SCIENCE THROUGH TRAIN-THE-TRAINER MODEL

The proposed project's main purpose is to increase enrollment of rural women and minorities (WAMs) in plant/horticultural sciences through train-the-trainer model. The project will develop and deliver plant/horticulture science curriculum for Colorado vocational agriculture teachers (Ag. teachers), especially women teacher from rural areas. In year 1-3, a one-week intense residential training will be provided to Ag. teachers and in year 2-3, additional field trips of Colorado Horticulture will be provided to Ag. teachers who have completed the residential trainings. The overall goal of increasing rural WAMs in plant/horticultural science could be realized through the project's target objectives: 1) to equip the agricultural teachers with necessary horticulture knowledge, skills, competence, and confidence; 2) to prepare them to teach horticulture effectively to students in their classes; 3) to increase high school dual enrollment horticulture class offerings; 4) to increase enrollment of WAMs from rural areas in horticulture and other plant sciences.This project will mainly focus on two need areas, Student Recruitment, Retention, Mentoring and Educational Equity, and Curriculum Design, Materials Development, and Library Resources. Project partners may include CSU Alliance Partnership, CSU Office of Engagement and Extension, Colorado Vocational Ag. teachers Association, and at least one high school (Trinidad; others will be determined during the grant implementation with participants). Other partners will be identified during the trainings. The number of students supported is estimated at 78.