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:
- Email 4-H Staff sharing your interested in the 4-H program for your classroom.
- 4-H staff will contact the teachers by e-mail to set up dates and times.
- 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.