The executive director of Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba (AITC-M) is taking on a new role at the national level.

As of May 21, Johanne Ross will become the executive director for Agriculture in the Classroom Canada (AITC-Canada), while Sue Clayton will replace her within the provincial organization.

"I'm thrilled, of course," Ross says. "For me, seeing this all finally come together and getting all these provinces together around the same table under a formalized organization is pretty exciting, and to have been involved in that from the ground up has been very rewarding. And now, to have the opportunity to lead that group as executive director, it makes me feel like we have so much to do, and I just can't wait to get going with it. I'm very excited about it."

Ross says right now, there are seven provinces working together under AITC-Canada, and one of her main priorities is to build on that.

"We're in lots of talks with the other provinces and territories to get them to join us as well. We truly want to be a coast to coast organization," she says. "We're very close with a couple more of the provinces already to get them at our table in a formalized manner."

Ross has lead AITC-M for the past 15 years, reaching over 4,000 teachers and students each year. She's also served as chair of the AITC-Canada board and made instrumental efforts in some of the national programs and intiatives, such as the Stewards of the Land storybook.