Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) and Discover Dairy are inviting educators to register for the popular Adopt a Cow program. It is now open for the 2025–26 school year. This udderly delightful — and completely free — experience connects students with a real Wisconsin calf and her farm family, turning agriculture education into an unforgettable adventure.
“Adopt-A-Cow provides an engaging way to connect elementary school students to agriculture and learn about their farmer next door,” said Erika Schade, DFW’s School & Community Programs Manager. “Last year, we reached 55,000 students in over 1,500 classrooms, helping them gain a better understanding of how dairy products reach their tables.”
Each participating Wisconsin classroom is matched with a calf. They receive regular photo and video updates, farm stories and educational materials throughout the school year. Students learn about the calf’s food, environment and daily care, while gaining insight into the farmers who care for her. Supplemental lessons and hands-on activities keep students engaged year-round. They help connect the experience to subjects like science, math and reading. Many lessons align with Common Core standards.
The program also helps students explore the broader impact of agriculture, including the vital role dairy plays in Wisconsin’s economy. Dairy is a $52.8 billion industry in the state. Programs, like Adopt a Cow, help build awareness of where food comes from—and the people behind it.
Educators who have participated in past years shared positive feedback about the program’s impact on student engagement and curiosity.
Wisconsin family farms participating this year include Schleis Farms in Two Rivers, Nellie Holsteins in Eau Claire, OrthRidge Jerseys in Lancaster, and McFarlandale Dairy in Watertown. Each farm has committed two calves to the program, and Discover Dairy will assign them to classrooms in the fall.
The Adopt a Cow program is open to all K-12 educators, homeschool classrooms, after-school and library programs, scout troops, 4-H clubs and other youth organizations. Anyone working with students or young learners is encouraged to participate. To enroll in the 2025-26 program, visit www.DiscoverDairy.com/adopt before the Sept. 15 deadline.
