The Des Moines Public Schools (DMPS) agriculture program has shaped the lives of countless students, opening doors to leadership, career opportunities, and hands-on learning in agriculture, animal science, horticulture, and environmental sustainability. This program is so respected that industry professionals, educators, and state fair staff across Iowa recognize it by name. It has produced award-winning students, national competitors, and future veterinarians, conservationists, agronomists, and even professionals in other industries.

But now, DMPS is planning to pause the agriculture program for an entire year to "redesign" it—without ensuring it will return in full. This is not just a simple curriculum change. A pause means lost momentum, lost student interest, and a program that may never fully recover.

Agricultural education is not something that can wait. This program connects urban students to one of the most vital industries in our state and country. It provides hands-on experience, scholarships, and leadership opportunities that shape futures. It is an essential part of preparing the next generation for careers in veterinary medicine, food science, sustainable farming, and more.

On March 4, 2025, students and alumni stood before the school board and passionately defended this program. We shared our achievements, personal experiences, and the undeniable impact this program has had on our lives. Yet, despite this, the board has not yet committed to keeping the program intact. We are also fighting to protect our teacher’s position. The district sent an email justifying the pause, citing a supposed “lack” of representation & inclusion—yet if you step into our classrooms for even five minutes, you’ll see that this is one of the most diverse agricultural programs in the state, with students from many different heritages and backgrounds, and a majority of students being female in an industry dominated by white males. The email also falsely claimed a “lack” of global agricultural connections, when in reality, students work directly with industry professionals, gaining real-world experience in agriculture and their future careers. These justifications were based on biased, unsupported claims, not real experiences or research.

Students and alumni have made it clear—there is nothing wrong with the curriculum, and it should not be changed.

By signing this petition, you are standing with DMPS students, alumni, and supporters who refuse to let this program disappear. We urge the school board to keep the agriculture program running while they redesign the curriculum. We ask them to work with students, educators, and industry professionals to ensure this vital program remains intact and continues to serve the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Sign now to save agricultural education in Des Moines Public Schools!