Ag Courses

Currently offered Ag Education Courses

Click the drop down menu under Ag Courses to see more specific information.

*Signifies that class can be taken for Science Credit*

Ag Science - This year long course is intended to serve as the introductory course for Freshman. The course is structured to enable all students to have a variety of experiences that will provide an overview of the fields of agricultural science and natural resources so that students may continue through a sequence of courses through high school. Students participating in Ag Science will experience STEM based hands-on activities, projects, and problems. Student experiences will involve the study of communication, the science of agriculture, plants, animals, natural resources, and agricultural mechanics. While surveying the opportunities available in agriculture and natural resources, students will learn to solve problems, conduct research, analyze data, work in teams, and take responsibility for their work, actions, and learning. For example, students will work in groups to determine the efficiency and environmental impacts of fuel sources in a practical learning exercise.

*Animal Science - This is a year long course that is intended for Sophomores through Seniors, depending on interest and when it fits your schedule. The major domesticated animals such as cattle, swine, sheep, and horses will be explored in this class. Areas of study first semester include: basic animal terminology, breed identification and history, animal behavior, safety and facility design, disease/parasite unit, small animal care, and proper management and health practices. Second semester we build on first semester and there is an emphasis on judging and meat evaluation, nutrition and feeding, reproduction, and total herd management. Specific areas of study include animal judging techniques and workshops, cuts of meat identification and grading, feed identification, protein analysis, figuring feed rations, reproductive terminology and anatomy, and breeding schedules. One of the fun activities that we do in this class is BBQ different pieces of meat and evaluate them for quality.This class is a foundation for many careers such as a Vet tech., Microbiologist, Animal Scientist, Reproductive Specialist, Nutritional Analyst, and Animal Health Product Salesperson.

*Plant Science - This is a year long course that is intended for Sophomores through Seniors, depending on interest and when it fits your schedule. Students will learn how to apply scientific knowledge and skills to use plants effectively for agricultural and horticultural production. Lessons throughout the course will provide an overview of the field of plant science. These lessons include working in teams and exploring hands-on projects. Students will work on major projects and problems similar to those that plant science specialists, such as horticulturalists, agronomists, greenhouse and nursery managers, and plant research specialists, face in their respective careers. Plant Science areas of study include: Soils, Anatomy and Physiology of Plants, Taxonomy, Growing Environment, Reproduction, Pest and Disease Management, Crop Production and Marketing. A few example class activities include: growing lettuce through hydroponics, operating a drone, and propagating and selling cherry tomato plants.

*Environmental Science - This is a semester long course that is intended for Sophomores through Seniors, depending on interest and when it fits your schedule. In the future, I hope to offer this new STEM curriculum as a year long class. Students will explore hands-on projects and activities while studying topics such as land use, water quality, stewardship, and environmental agencies. Study of the natural world including biomes, land, air, water, energy, use and care as well as a focus on issues surrounding man's interaction with the Earth will be addressed in this course. I am excited to offer all the hands on activities and the opportunities to explore outside!

Leadership and Development - Leadership and Development focuses on teaching teamwork, cooperation, leadership styles, resume writing, job interviews, public speaking, and other important life lessons. This is a class that will prepare the student for the future with real life situations and opportunities. Students get the opportunity to network with community and business leaders by doing a mock interview. I work hard to pair each student with a business they are interested in pursuing as a career. The ultimate teambuilding challenge that I give students is to successfully plan, execute, and evaluate a community service project. Some past examples are as follows: Dinner for a homeless shelter, coordinated supply drive for local people in need, MOSAIC Volunteers, painted hallways at school, and speaker Dave Roever.

EVERYONE possesses leadership skills!

Come see what skills you possess and what kind of leader you are! I dare you to take this class!

Independent Study - This course is offered as an option for students who have completed other course offerings or have a specific situation that requires an independent study class. In the past I have collaborated with parents and students to create experiences for our students that best fit their interest area. Examples include: half day work study with Agri-Vision, Animal Science extensions where student acquired her Beef Advocacy Certificate, and on-line Ag. curriculum.

"Be present in the day and enjoy the gifts that have been given to us."