Microsoft and FFA help students use smart sensors and AI to learn about the future of farming and technology

Rhea-AI Summary

Microsoft (MSFT) and the National FFA Organization announced the nationwide expansion of FarmBeats for Students, an educational program that will be available to FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools across all 50 states. The program provides free classroom kits containing smart sensors and curriculum to teach precision agriculture through data science and AI.

The initiative allows students to build environmental sensor systems and use AI to monitor soil moisture and nutrient deficiencies in real-time. Teachers and students outside the FFA can purchase kits for $35, while educators can access free training through the Microsoft Educator Learn Center. The program aligns with AI for K-12 guidelines, Agriculture standards, Computer Science standards, and Common Core math requirements.

Positive

• Strategic partnership with National FFA Organization expands Microsoft's educational presence in agriculture sector
• Program creates early exposure to Microsoft's technology ecosystem in agriculture
• Low-cost implementation ($35 per kit) enables broad market penetration in education sector

Negative

• None.

Partnership expands FarmBeats for Students program to all 50 states to help grow next generation of farmers

REDMOND, Wash., May 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. and the National FFA Organization on Tuesday announced the national expansion of FarmBeats for Students, a cutting-edge educational program integrating smart sensors, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to teach precision agriculture in classrooms. Starting today, FFA teachers and students throughout the United States, including FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools, will receive a classroom set of FarmBeats for Students kits free of charge. The kits include ready-to-use sensor systems along with curriculum for teachers and are designed for classrooms of all kinds; no prior technical experience is required.

More and more farmers are adopting advanced technology, including automating systems such as tractors and harvesters and using drones and data analysis to intervene early against pests and disease, to maximize crop yield, optimize resource usage, and adjust to changing weather patterns. Gaining hands-on experience with machine automation, data science and AI will help American agricultural students remain competitive in the global market.

Using the FarmBeats for Students kits and free curriculum, students build environmental sensor systems and use AI to monitor soil moisture and detect nutrient deficiencies — allowing them to understand what is happening with their plants and make data-driven decisions in real time. Students can adapt the kit to challenges unique to their region — such as drought, frost and pests — providing them with practical experience in tackling real-world issues in their hometowns.

"Microsoft is committed to ensuring students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed in today's tech-driven world, and that includes giving students hands-on experience with precision farming, data science and AI," said Mary Snapp, Microsoft vice president, Strategic Initiatives. "By teaming up with FFA to bring FarmBeats for Students to students across the country, we hope to inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders and equip them with the skills to tackle any and all challenges as they guide us into the future."

"Our partnership with Microsoft exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing industry needs while fostering personal and professional growth among students," said Christine White, chief program officer, National FFA Organization. "Supporting agricultural education and leadership development is crucial for shaping the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Programs like this equip students with technical knowledge, confidence and adaptability to thrive in diverse and evolving industries. Investing in these young minds today sets the stage for a more sustainable, innovative and resilient agricultural future."

In addition, teachers, students or parents interested in FarmBeats for Students can purchase a kit for $35 at this link and receive free training at Microsoft Learn.

Any educator interested in implementing the FarmBeats for Students program can now access a new, free comprehensive course on the Microsoft Educator Learn Center, providing training on precision agriculture, data science and AI, allowing teachers to earn professional development hours and badges. 

FarmBeats for Students was co-developed by Microsoft, FFA and agriculture educators. The program aligns with the AI for K-12 initiative guidelines; Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources career standards; Computer Science Teachers Association standards; and Common Core math standards.

For more information about FarmBeats for Students, visit aka.ms/FBFS.

About National FFA Organization
The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 1,027,200 student members as part of 9,235 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. 

About Microsoft
Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT" @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

 

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SOURCE Microsoft Corp.

FAQ

What is Microsoft's FarmBeats for Students program and how much does it cost?

FarmBeats for Students is Microsoft's educational program that provides smart sensor kits and curriculum to teach precision agriculture using data science and AI. It's free for FFA chapters in 185 schools, while others can purchase kits for $35.

How many schools will receive Microsoft's FarmBeats program in 2025?

The program will be available to FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools across all 50 states in the United States.

What technologies are included in Microsoft's FarmBeats for Students kit?

The FarmBeats for Students kit includes environmental sensor systems that allow students to monitor soil moisture and detect nutrient deficiencies using AI and data science.

How can teachers access training for Microsoft's FarmBeats program?

Teachers can access free comprehensive training through the Microsoft Educator Learn Center, where they can earn professional development hours and badges while learning about precision agriculture, data science, and AI.