Nebraska Hosts Soybean Teacher Program

By Scout Nelson

University of Nebraska Lincoln, with support from the Nebraska Soybean Board, is inviting educators across Nebraska to participate in the 2026 Summer Soybean Institute. The program will take place on July 7-8 and July 14-16 at the Eastern Nebraska Research Extension and Education Center near Ithaca, Nebraska.

The multiday educational program is designed for middle and high school teachers interested in integrating agriculture and soybeans into classroom learning. Organizers said the institute helps educators connect science, math, economics, and agriculture concepts to real-world experiences for students.

Now entering its sixth year, the Summer Soybean Institute explores soybeans as a complete agricultural system. Teachers will work with experts from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, the Nebraska Soybean Board, and local teacher leaders to better understand soybean production and agricultural careers.

Participants will collaborate with educators from different subject areas while developing classroom lessons connected to college- and career-ready educational standards. Teachers will also receive ready-to-use lesson plans, classroom tools, and educational resources designed to support cross-curricular learning opportunities.

Program leaders said the institute also helps increase awareness about why soybeans are important to Nebraska agriculture and the many careers connected to the soybean industry. The training gives educators practical ways to introduce agriculture topics into daily classroom instruction while supporting student interest in science, technology, and food production systems.

Teachers attending the full program are eligible to receive a $1,050 attendance stipend. Participants may also qualify for a $250 lesson plan implementation bonus along with classroom supplies and educational materials.

Organizers encourage educators to apply before the May 15 deadline because available spots fill quickly. Priority consideration will be given to cross-curricular teaching teams interested in working together throughout the program.

Additional information and registration details are available on the Summer Soybean Institute webpage.

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