4-H School Enrichment Programs

As the 2025–2026 school year gets underway, local classrooms have access to a dynamic menu of interactive programs designed to ignite curiosity and reinforce academic concepts—all aligned with Nebraska state education standards.

Delivered through Nebraska Extension in Madison County, the 4-H School Enrichment Program offers research-based, grade-appropriate curriculum that enhances traditional classroom instruction. From engineering and agriculture to life sciences and hygiene, these engaging lessons give students the chance to learn by doing—one of 4-H’s most effective educational principles.

Educators can choose from in-person instruction, check-out kits, or virtual options, with all materials delivered directly to classrooms. The flexibility and convenience make the program a favorite among teachers and school administrators across the county.

Check out the program offerings below then contact the office as soon as possible to schedule your classroom, organization, or your 4-H club meeting.

For more information, contact:

Nebraska Extension in Madison County
1305 S. 13th Street 
Norfolk, NE 68701

Sarah Polacek, 4-H Educator 
Phone: 1-402-370-4040 
E-mail: spolacek2@unl.edu

Jayd Krueger, 4-H Associate
Phone: 1-402-370-4040 
E-mail: jroberts41@unl.edu

To register for the classes:

  1. Email 4-H Staff sharing your interested in the 4-H program for your classroom.  
  2. 4-H staff will contact the teachers by e-mail to set up dates and times.
  3. An invoice will be sent to you after confirmation of the programs.

4-H School Enrichment - 
In person instruction, Kits for check out and Virtual Options Available!

2025–2026 Program Highlights

  • 👩‍🔬 Imagine Now! STEAM and Nebraska Extension Science Day
    Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade dive into hands-on activities across science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). This year’s event takes place October 21 or 23 at the Madison County Fairgrounds.
    Cost: $6.00 per student.
     
  • 🌍 20th Annual GIS Day
    Students explore real-world applications of geographic information systems (GIS) through interactive lessons and activities. Held November 12 and 13 at the Nebraska Extension Office in Norfolk, with free afternoon sessions.
     
  • 🚜 23rd Annual Ag Literacy Festival
    A fun and educational introduction to Nebraska agriculture, including lessons on farm animals, crops, and the food system. Scheduled for March 24, 2026, at the Madison County Fairgrounds.
    Cost: $1.00 per student.
     
  • 🐣 Poultry Embryology
    Students observe the 21-day development of a chick embryo and witness live hatching in their classroom.
    Dates: Spring 2026
    Cost: $35.00 per classroom.
     
  • 🤖 OZOBOTS Coding Experience
    This tech-savvy program introduces students to basic coding using handheld robots. It includes two classroom visits and interactive lessons.
    Available upon request
    Cost: $25.00 per classroom.
     
  • 🧼 Learn About Germs and Handwashing
    Using a Glo-Germ kit, students learn about bacteria and proper hygiene techniques.
    Cost: $5.00 per classroom.
     
  • 🌾 Wheat Science – Bread in a Bag
    A fun plant science lesson where students learn about wheat production and make bread from scratch.
    Cost: $3.00 per group of 2–4 students.
     
  • 🦋 Caterpillar to Butterfly
    Students observe the metamorphosis of caterpillars into butterflies during this three-week life cycle lesson.
    Available upon request
    Cost: $25.00 per classroom.
     
  • 🐞 Life Cycle of Ladybugs
    An engaging biology unit focused on the predatory role and life stages of ladybugs.
    Available upon request
    Cost: $20.00 per classroom.

**New Foundational Programs coming soon!