DES MOINES, Iowa (May 9, 2024) – Des Moines Independent Community School District unveiled its newly constructed barn for agriculture and horticulture students. The new barn will give Central Campus students the opportunity to gain real-world experience working in the agricultural industry.
Central Campus’ Associate Principal Kelsie Mouchka hosted the event and introduced featured speakers including Landus President & CEO, Matt Carstens. The Matt and Sanda Carstens Family Foundation, in coordination with Landus and the Landus Board of Directors, raised $50,000 for the barn’s construction with the goal of inspiring the next generation of agricultural workers and farmers.
“Farming is one of the world’s oldest professions and remains one of, if not, the most critical industry in the world. This barn represents Landus’ commitment to ensuring the longevity and vitality of agriculture work by providing the next generation of farmers with the tools and experience needed to usher in the next era of farming. We’re proud to support Central Campus and its agricultural sciences program,” said Carstens.
Event attendees included Matt Smith, Des Moines Public School (DMPS) Associate Superintendent; DMPS Board Members; Dave Berger, DMPS Executive Director of Operations; Matt and Shanda Carstens; and students in the agricultural sciences program.
“The future agriculture leaders of Iowa will come from all backgrounds – urban populations included. This investment in the future of agriculture demonstrates Central Campus’ commitment to creating diverse opportunities for students and inspiring the next generation of leaders across all industries.”
The new barn will be open for all students in the metro area who choose the Central Campus Ag program. Landus and Central Campus are providing opportunities for all students to know that they belong in the Ag field. Interested students may sign up now for the fall semester on the Central Campus website.
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About Des Moines Independent Community School District
For over 100 years, Des Moines Public Schools has been educating the students of Iowa’s capital city. Today, we are the largest provider of public education in Iowa, with more than 30,000 students and nearly 5,000 teachers and staff at work in more than 60 schools throughout the community.
About Landus
Landus is a forward-thinking agriculture solutions company that keeps the farmer at the center. Landus connects thousands of farmer-owners with the world through grain, agronomy, and distribution, deploying traditional and nontraditional methods fueled by innovation and sustainability across 34 states and 16 countries. Landus is known for transforming the traditional cooperative model with its innovative approach to technology and strategic partnerships, identifying the challenges that farmers face today and developing data-backed individualized solutions that impact every part of the supply chain.
