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Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Cluster

Introduction to Agriculture Science & Technology

Grades 10, 11, 12 • 1 Unit

This course is designed to teach essential concepts and understanding related to plant and animal life including biotechnology, the conservation of natural resources, and the impact of agriculture and natural resource utilization on the environment.  Emphasis is placed on the role of agriculture in our society and the importance of agriculture to the welfare of the world.  Basic personal and community leadership and safety, and agricultural mechanical technology are included as a part of the instructional program.  Each student is expected to design and participate in a supervised agricultural experience.

Typical learning activities include hands-on learning experiences including performing basic principles of plant, soil, and animal science, studying and modeling the significance of humankind’s interrelationship with soil, water, and air, participating in FFA activities. 

FFA membership dues are $10.00.

Students work in greenhouse

Introduction to Veterinary Science

Grades 10,11,12 • 1 Unit

Baby chick

The science of veterinary medicine will be explored by students in this course.   Students will study the role of a veterinarian and veterinary technician in the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases.  Topics to be discussed include:  veterinary terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathology, genetics, handling and restraint, and physical examinations along with common surgical skills.  Students will engage in a variety of laboratory activities and will participate in shadowing and/or other school-to-work experiences.

FFA membership dues are $10.00.

Agriculture Mechanics

Grades 10, 11,12 • 1 Unit

In this course, students will receive hands-on training in the safe operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment used in the horticulture industry.  Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with agricultural power units; the planning and selection of materials for the construction of agricultural facilities; the mechanical practices associated with irrigation and water conservation; erosion control; metal fabrication. The greenhouse will be a source of training with emphasis on environment-controlling equipment. 

FFA membership dues are $10.00.

Agriculture Mechanics students

Introduction to Horticulture

Grades 10,11,12 • 1 Unit

This course is designed to be an introduction to the Horticulture pathway.  This course includes organized subject matter and practical experiences related to the culture of plants used principally for ornamental or aesthetic purposes.  Instruction emphasizes knowledge and understanding of the importance of establishing, maintaining, and managing ornamental horticulture enterprises.

Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with propagating, growing, establishing, and maintaining nursery plants and greenhouse crops;  tissue culture techniques;  designing landscapes;  preparing designs;  sales analysis and management;  participating in personal and community leadership development activities;  planning and implementing a relevant school-to-work transition experience;  and participating in FFA activities.

Landscape Technology

Grades 10,11,12 • 1 Unit

This course is designed to qualify the student completing the course for job entry into landscaping fields or to continue advanced training in post high school education.  A combination of subject matter and activities is designed to teach technical knowledge and skills for entry-level positions in selling, selecting, and servicing.

Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with the planning and selection of materials for the construction of hardscapes, the mechanical practices associated with irrigation and water conservation, erosion control, participating in personal and community leadership development activities, planning and implementing a relevant supervised agricultural experience, and participating in FFA activities.

Small Animal Care

Grades 10,11,12 • 1 Unit

This course is designed to teach technical knowledge and skills for occupations in the pet industry or the companion animal industry.  Skills also relate to the veterinarian or the veterinarian technician career field.

Typical instructional activities include hands-on experiences with cats, dogs, rabbits, fish, etc. participating in personal and community leadership development activities; and planning a relevant school-to-work transition experience.

Instructors: Genie Archer & Heather Schneider