By Blake Jackson
Kentucky students will get a new and engaging way to learn about agriculture and farm safety this fall through All in for Ag Education Week, scheduled for September 21-25, 2026.
The initiative will use the story of Willie B., a farm dog whose adventures are designed to help children understand agriculture while learning how to make safe and responsible decisions.
More than 700 public elementary schools across Kentucky are expected to receive a copy of "Farm Adventures with Willie B.," along with a Willie B. stuffed dog and literacy lessons aligned with educational standards. The materials are designed for students from kindergarten through fifth grade and will introduce agricultural topics through an entertaining story.
“There may not be a better way to get a child’s attention than with a good dog and a good story,” Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “Willie B.’s farm adventures can teach students more about Kentucky agriculture and, just as importantly, how to stay safe around the farm.”
Willie B. is an Australian Cattle dog and the mascot of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Raising Hope Program. The program operates through the Farm Safety and Rural Health Division and focuses on farm safety, farmer health and farm rescue.
The dog became connected to Raising Hope through the late Dale Dobson, who previously led the division. Dobson frequently brought Willie B. to Raising Hope events, where the dog became popular with farmers, families and children. His role eventually grew into an unofficial position with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and a permanent place on the Raising Hope team.
Dobson, who died in July, was nationally recognized for his contributions to farm safety, health and rescue. His legacy is represented in the book through the character “Farmer Dale,” helping introduce his work to a new generation.
Farm safety is the primary focus of this year's All in for Ag Education Week, which coincides with National Farm Safety and Health Week.
The partnership brings together Agriculture Commissioner Shell, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and Kentucky Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher to expand agricultural education opportunities throughout the state.
Written by Murray State University agriculture professor Brian Hoover and agronomist Emily Schell and illustrated by Ashley Schell Fowler, the book follows Willie B. and Farmer Dale during a day on the farm. The story combines everyday farm activities with lessons about making safe choices.
“I have enjoyed seeing this project grow from an idea into a finished product with such a meaningful purpose,” Hoover said.
“This book is a simple story presented in a simple way with a potential lifesaving and life-changing impact. The safety message and learning opportunities provided by Willie B. carry forward the work and legacy of Dale Dobson and his team to promote safer and healthier agricultural communities,” Hoover added.
Schell and Fowler also emphasized the importance of agriculture safety and described the project as a meaningful opportunity to help children learn valuable lessons that can support safer farm communities.
Photo Credit: kentucky-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Kentucky, Education