Oneida County to Deploy Ag Educator Into Classrooms

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente has announced a new educator position that will establish agricultural curriculum in local schools.

The position is funded by the county and contracted through Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County.

There are currently 15 public school districts in Oneida County, with just four offering agriculture education through the Future Farmers of America -- Adirondack, Remsen, Vernon-Verona-Sherrill and Waterville

The ag educator position is a key component to the Oneida County Dairy Farmer Sustainability Action Plan that Picente formulated following a series of forums with local dairy farmers.

"Having an educator in our local classrooms fostering awareness and interest in agriculture will further strengthen what is already the number one industry in Oneida County," Picente said. "This will give our youth an even greater opportunity to learn about the importance food production and service has in our community and the future role they can play in it."

The position pays about $40,000 a year.

For more information on qualifications, requirements and benefits, and to apply for the position, visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension website.