.png)
A Central Iowa Beekeepers Association Pollinator Education Program
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of the Central Iowa Beekeepers Association Inc. Pollinator Education Program is to create pollinator ambassadors of all ages, beginning with students studying pollinators in their school curriculum. Our goal is to instill a lifelong appreciation of nature, the vital role of pollinators and the benefits they offer this world.
FOR EDUCATORS!
BRING THE BUZZ INTO YOUR CLASSROOM
The Bees & Beyond program brings engaging pollinator education directly to 2nd grade classrooms. Designed to meet Iowa educational standards, the program uses interactive presentations, hands-on activities,
and real-world examples to help students explore plant needs, the role of bees in ecosystems, and biodiversity in different habitats. Lessons also incorporate math skills throughout the presentation. Led by trained and experienced volunteer beekeepers, Bees & Beyond inspires curiosity, assists in supporting some of the core curriculum goals, and fosters an early appreciation for the vital role pollinators play in our world.
PRESENTATION REQUEST PROCESS
This program was launched in January of 2026 by CIBA’s Bees & Beyond Committee. This past spring our volunteers presented in 11 schools and reached more than 600 students. The program is designed for second-grade students to fulfill part of their curriculum on pollination.
While we provide education about pollinators, a good portion of our presentation is relative to the honey bee, which is our team's expertise. The one-hour Bees & Beyond program includes a slide presentation and hands-on demonstration of beekeeping equipment. We will conclude with a Pollinator Jeopardy game. For the game, we will need teacher assistance to divide students into 3 teams.
We have begun scheduling programs for the Fall 2026 semester in central Iowa schools. To begin the process, teachers should complete the form below. Once we receive the form, the Bees & Beyond teacher liaison will
contact the teacher to schedule a 10-minute phone call. During that call, the liaison will explain more about the program, our technology needs and potential days and times for the school visit. You will be notified after a date is set and we have two volunteers for the school visit. Following the program, you will receive an email to take a short evaluation survey to help us improve the program.
We will attempt to fulfill as many requests for programs as possible, depending on volunteer availability. Each class will receive a book on pollination and each student will get a bookmark on how to protect pollinators. Thanks to donations to CIBA, there is no cost to the school for this program at this time.
We are looking forward to working with you and your students!