Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom (CoAITC) Board of Directors and Advisory Board

Position Description and Application

Vision and Mission

Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom (CoAITC)/Colorado Foundation for Agriculture (CFA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit education corporation. The vision is to advance agricultural literacy in the next generation of consumers, citizens, and professionals. The mission is connecting Colorado educators and students to their food, fiber, fuel, and natural resources.

Overview

Since 1991, Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom seeks to advance agricultural literacy – an awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the food and fiber system we all rely on every day. CoAITC is the lead agricultural literacy organization that serves the full spectrum of prekindergarten through 12th grade formal and informal education in Colorado. Through partnerships from community stakeholders and funding from corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals, CoAITC programs and resources are provided for free or at minimal cost to Colorado educators and students in urban, suburban, and rural communities across the state. CoAITC is the state contact program for the National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization (NAITCO). The fiscal year begins August 1.

Board of Directors

CoAITC is governed by a three- to nine-member voting board of directors. Members of the CoAITC Board of Directors serve three-year terms and may be re-elected for a second term. Former directors may be re-elected after remaining off the board for a minimum of one year.

Advisory Board

A non-voting advisory board of up to 12 members guide the board of directors on the development of resources and programs. Advisory board members are comprised of representatives of agricultural producers, agricultural vendors, conservation and environment organizations, and interested parties for the purpose of maintaining a holistic balance. Advisory board members serve one-year terms, for any successive terms to which they desire to serve.

Meeting frequency and time dedication

The board of directors and advisory board hold joint, quarterly, day-long meetings, during the months of August; November, which is also the annual meeting; February; and May. These quarterly meetings typically begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude in the early afternoon. They are generally held in-person, under normal circumstances, in various locations in Colorado (currently typically on the Front Range). A simultaneous virtual meeting attendance option is available when feasible. Committee meetings (1-2 hours per meeting) are held virtually, prior to the regular quarterly meetings. Some minimal travel may be required to attend meetings and volunteer at events.

Responsibilities

1. Actively promote the mission of Colorado Agriculture in the Classroom.
2. Attend CoAITC Board of Directors/Advisory Board meetings (4, day-long meetings per year).
3. Serve on CoAITC committees and attend committee meetings (1-2 hours per meeting, held prior to regular quarterly meetings).
4. Participate in the fundraising.
5. Take part in activities.
6. Participate in training and planning sessions.
7. Represent CoAITC at various agricultural, commodity, civic, and educational organizations.
8. CoAITC Board of Directors and Advisory Board members serve voluntarily.

CoAITC Committees

• Financial/Fundraising Committee
• Classroom Education Committee
• Professional Development Committee
• Governance Committee
• Awards and Educator Opportunities Committee
• Communications and Outreach Committee
• Officer Nominating Committee (Advisory board members)

Application process

There are up to four positions open on the CoAITC Board of Directors (includes two positions up for re-election) and at least one position open on the Advisory Board. If you are interested in being considered for any of these open positions, you must complete the following application. Applications are due July 29, 2024. Any questions should be directed to Jennifer Scharpe, CoAITC executive director.