Through the beef certificate program, the Kansas Beef Council (KBC) is building confidence in beef among future consumers by bringing hands-on learning and science-based education into classrooms across the state. During the 2025-2026 school year, 132 middle schools and high schools are participating in the program.
Schools are reimbursed for beef used in classroom labs, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in beef selection, storage, preparation and nutrition. Teachers also receive access to more than 10 lesson plans that highlight beef’s nutritional value and how it is responsibly produced.
KBC further strengthens relationships with educators through outreach at professional development events, including the Kansas FCCLA and United Associations conferences in Wichita. These interactions position KBC as a trusted resource for classroom-ready, science-based materials.
Beyond the classroom, students apply their skills in real-world settings. At the 2026 Kansas ProStart Invitational last month, Eudora High School earned “Best Beef Dish,” demonstrating creativity and culinary skill using beef.
In partnership with the California Beef Council, KBC also expanded its reach through a virtual learning series designed to help students connect beef production to food safety, meat science and cooking. The first session reached more than 4,100 students across 278 classrooms through live participation, with a recording available for continued classroom use, extending its reach as an ongoing learning resource.
By combining classroom support, educator engagement, and hands-on learning, KBC’s nutrition programming helps the next generation understand beef’s value while building trust and keeping beef top of minds in their food choices.