Malone Middle School is proud to announce that our eighth grade students have won the 2024 New York Agriculture in the Classroom (NYAITC) Schoolyard Sugaring Contest. This competition, now in its eighth year, encourages students across New York State to delve into the history, art, and science of maple syrup production.
Under the guidance of their dedicated teachers and in partnership with local maple producers, our students engaged in the entire syrup-making process. From tapping trees and collecting sap to producing and bottling their own maple syrup, they experienced firsthand the steps involved in this traditional craft. Additionally, students captured the syrup production journey through photography, highlighting their learning and experiences.
A total of one hundred twenty-seven educators from various educational settings across New York participated in the contest, from top honors in three divisions: Elementary, Middle, and High School. The first thirty classrooms to register received a valuable maple starter kit, enhancing their hands-on learning experience. Malone Middle School’s entry was among the forty-seven student-produced maple samples submitted for judging by a panel of maple experts. The entries were evaluated on density, clarity, color, and taste.
Our eighth grade classroom’s exceptional maple syrup earned them the first-place prize in the Middle School division, along with a $250 award. This achievement not only showcases our students' dedication and skill but also reflects the high-quality education and support provided by our teachers.
Students participated in a virtual field trip to Cornell University’s Arnot Teaching and Research Forest. Led by Aaron Wightman, Cornell’s State Maple Specialist, the tour provided insights into the science of maple production, ongoing research, and career opportunities in agriculture. This virtual experience was attended by approximately 7,000 students, educators, and school staff from 267 classrooms.
Participation in the NYAITC Schoolyard Sugaring Contest has significantly increased our students' agricultural literacy, creating a deeper appreciation for New York’s maple and agricultural industries. We are immensely proud of our students' achievements and grateful for the opportunities provided by NYAITC and Cornell University.
Congratulations to our eighth graders for their outstanding accomplishment!