The Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board (WMMB) is helping fourth graders across the state celebrate Wisconsin’s 160-year dairy farming tradition with “Curds in the Classroom.” On June 1, WMMB will deliver fresh, squeaky Henning's Wisconsin cheese curds to 1,000 fourth grade classrooms for teachers and students to enjoy. Teachers were notified of the "Curds in the Classroom" program via e-mail earlier this month, and within an hour, all 1,000 bags were spoken for.

The shipment of fresh curds marks the start of June Dairy Month, a long-standing tradition where Wisconsinites come together to celebrate the important role the dairy industry plays in the state with a month of community events including dairy farm breakfasts, parades, fairs and more.

“Wisconsin fourth graders have spent the year learning about the history of the state and the impact Wisconsin dairy farm families have on the economy on a both local and national level,” said Laura Wilford, Director of WMMB’s Wisconsin Dairy Council. “‘Curds in the Classroom’ is a fun way to celebrate the end of the school year and the start of a month honoring those families who make it possible for all of us to call America’s Dairyland home.”

Teachers are encouraged to share photos of their students enjoying the curds for a chance to win a special teacher prize package from the Wisconsin Dairy Council. To enter, teachers can post a photo of their class with their curds to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #CurdsintheClassroom and tag @AmericasDairyland. Winners will be selected via a random drawing.

“Curds in the Classroom” is just one of the many ways WMMB is working with students on both a local and national level. WMMB supports Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school health and wellness program established in partnership with National Football League (NFL), to tackle obesity by encouraging students to exercise for at least 60 minutes per day and enjoy dairy as part of a healthy diet. To date, over 3 million students in Wisconsin and over 38 million students nationally have participated in this program. Locally, WMMB also provides support for 4H clubs across the state and awards grants to encourage student participation local FFA chapters.

To learn more about “Curds in the Classroom” and other educational programs from WMMB visit www.wisconsindairycouncil.com.