The Cloverland Elementary School Cougars in Oakdale greeted horses, cows and numerous other farm animals on Friday, March 13, all in the name of their annual Ag Day. Nearly three dozen presenters from the Oakdale community and surrounding areas took over the campus to share fun facts as well as educate the students about their varying areas of expertise.

Everything from making butter, bees for honey to polo ponies and Alpacas were on hand for the elementary students.

“I absolutely love our Oakdale community and surrounding areas,” Cloverland teacher and Ag Day Co-Coordinator Leah Carl shared. “They show up consistently year after year. They do not get paid for this. They are so kid minded and future minded. They are great at interacting with the students and helping educate them.”

As presenters filled the classrooms, as well as the blacktop areas and fields at the elementary school, the students visited each station as a class to learn a little about the presenters’ area of expertise.

“It’s important for our students because we live in the Central Valley,” Carl stated. “A lot of these kids have not even been to farms, to a dairy, so it’s important for them to understand the heritage that they’re growing up with.”

Carl further shared the day presents an opportunity for the students to be exposed to future careers. Equally important are the student presenters and the lessons they learn as participants.

“They’re learning public speaking skills,” she said of the student presenters. “I just think it’s so great for all sort of character development.”

Carl shared many of the students look forward to the day every year for its unique opportunities and experience. An experience, she noted, that is only possible because of the selflessness and dedication of the presenters.

“They are so generous with their time. I’m grateful to them,” she concluded.

To set the tone for a day of success, Cloverland Parent Teacher Club offered breakfast for the presenters. The day was concluded with a tri-tip lunch.