Mission Explorium 2026, led by Agriculture in the Classroom Canada, encouraged students to learn about farming and sustainability in a simple and practical way. The program welcomed students from Grades 6 to 8 across the country.
Students worked on a project where they designed a farming community on a deserted island. They had to plan food production, manage resources, and create a system that could support people over time. This activity helped them understand how farming connects to everyday life.
The national winner was the Grade 6 class of Nicole Lovell from Templeton Academy in Meadows, Newfoundland. Their project impressed judges with their creative ideas and clear focus on building a sustainable food system. The class will receive an indoor garden from Plantaform to continue hands-on learning.
Regional winners were also recognized across Canada.
These included:
Region 1: Class of Robertson – Halifax, NS (Grade 6)
Region 2: Class of Lovell – Meadows, NL (Grade 6)
Region 3: Class of Grandfield – Nipawin, SK (Grade 7)
Region 4: Class of Chaszewski – Portage La Prairie, MB (Grade 6/7/8)
Region 5: Class of McCadden – Dartmouth, NS (Grade 7/8)
Region 6: Class of Bahuguna – Mississauga, ON (Grade 6)
Region 7: Class of Ferraris – Saint‑Colomban, QC (Grade 6)
Region 8: Class of Pelchat – Truro, NS (Grade 8)
Region 9: Class of Pelletier – Preissac, QC (Grade 6)
Region 10: Class of Vincent‑Racicot – Eastman, QC (Grade 6)
Region 11: Class of Desilets – La Broquerie, MB (Grade 6)
“Through Mission Explorium, students are demonstrating the exact skills our future food system will rely on—critical thinking, collaboration, and a deep understanding of sustainability,” says Denise Schmidt, Executive Director of AITC‑C. “Their work as agriculture and food problem solvers shows how capable and imaginative the next generation truly is.”
The program will return in 2027, giving more students the chance to explore farming, sustainability, and innovation.