Marie Kruse of Lake City, Minnesota, was named the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Teacher Award by Minnesota Agriculture in the Classroom (MAITC), according to a May 6 announcement. The award recognizes K-12 educators in Minnesota who incorporate agriculture into their classroom curriculum.
This recognition highlights efforts to increase agricultural literacy among students and emphasizes the importance of understanding agriculture’s role in daily life. MAITC is a partnership between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and the MAITC Foundation, aiming to boost agricultural knowledge through K-12 education.
Kruse has spent over two decades bringing agricultural themes into her kindergarten classroom at Bluff View Elementary. Her initiatives include participating in programs such as Midwest Dairy Adopt-a-Calf and organizing community events like a Farm Machinery Parade for “I Love to Read” Month. A video featuring her work is available on the MAITC YouTube channel.
Reflecting on her teaching approach, Kruse said, “Watching students connect farm life to their own lives and develop an understanding of where their food comes from is both professionally meaningful and deeply rewarding.”
Sue Knott, Education Specialist with MAITC, said, “Marie Kruse is an outstanding advocate for agricultural literacy and recognizes the impact that learning about agriculture has on her students. She goes above and beyond to create hands-on experiences that connect classroom learning to the real world—from interactive classroom spaces to community events that bring agriculture to life. Her passion is contagious, and it shows in the way her students engage with and understand agriculture.”
In addition to this state-level honor, Kruse was recognized nationally as one of six Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award winners by the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization. She will receive a $500 stipend along with covered travel expenses for attending this June’s National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference in Providence, Rhode Island.
All licensed K-12 educators in Minnesota who creatively integrate agricultural concepts into non-agricultural subjects are eligible for this annual award after review by a committee from MAITC Foundation’s board members.
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture supports consumers while promoting local farming across all regions of Minnesota; it also collaborates with federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture on various initiatives led by Commissioner Thom Petersen according to its official website.
