The Valley School District in Hazleton, Idaho, is making a significant milestone with the launch of its agriculture education program, thanks to a $3.3 million Idaho Career Ready Students (ICRS) grant. This significant funding will go toward the construction of a new ag education building, featuring modern shop and classroom spaces designed to equip students with real-world, hands-on agricultural experience.

To bring this vision to life, an estimated additional $500,000 is needed, not covered by the grant, including soft costs, such as fees and permits. In response, the Valley Agriculture Education Foundation (VAEF), a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit for this purpose, is rallying community support through fundraising efforts, including an exclusive event that will be a highlight for Southern Idaho’s agriculture industry.

“Cultivating Legacy – Growing for Generations” fundraiser dinner and auction

Date: Friday, April 11, 2025
Location: Canyon Crest, Twin Falls, Idaho
Event features: Dinner, live and silent auctions, industry networking

VAEF is inviting the Magic Valley’s leading agriculture businesses, ranchers, farmers and community supporters to be part of this legacy-building event. Attendees will enjoy a memorable evening featuring live and silent auctions, a premium dining experience and the opportunity to invest in the future of Idaho agriculture by helping fund this critical educational initiative. The evening will be emceed by Jessie Jarvis, founder and CEO of Of the West (a job platform), a respected rancher and a notable Western influencer. Jack Riggs will take the stage as our auctioneer, bringing energy and excitement to the live auction.

Why this project matters

Valley School District is currently one of the only school systems in the Magic Valley without an ag program, despite being surrounded by a thriving agriculture industry. The new ag education building will ensure that local students gain the skills, knowledge and hands-on training necessary to thrive in Idaho’s largest economic sector.

Ways to support the cause

• Attend the fundraiser – Enjoy an evening celebrating Idaho agriculture and student success
• Donate auction items – Contribute a live or silent auction item to make the event a success
• Become a sponsor – Businesses can leave a lasting impact through financial or in-kind sponsorships

“This isn’t just about building a facility – it’s about investing in the future of agriculture and creating opportunities for students to develop real-world skills,” says Krista Huettig, chair of VAEF. “With the support of our community, we can shape and provide opportunities to the next generation of farmers, ranchers and ag leaders.”

We are proud to recognize our elite sponsors, Dusty and Amanda Standlee and TitleOne for their outstanding support. Additionally, we extend our sincere gratitude to our platinum sponsors, Jerome County Farm Bureau and Idaho AgCredit for their commitment to strengthening agriculture education in our community.

For sponsorship opportunities, ticket information or to donate auction items, please email VAEF or visit our Facebook page.

—From a Valley Agriculture Education Foundation press release