Agricultural education first became a part of the public education system in 1917 when the U.S. Congress passed the Smith-Hughes Act. Today, over 800,000 students participate in formal agricultural education instructional programs offered in grades seven through adult throughout the 50 states and three U. S. territories.
Through agricultural education, students are provided opportunities for leadership development, personal growth and career success.
Agricultural Mechanics: This laboratory course is designed to provide students with introductory level experiences in selected major areas of agricultural mechanics technology which may include woodworking, agricultural structures, electrical wiring, electric and welding, oxy/fuel cutting and welding processes, and power equipment operation and maintenance. Learning activities include information skill development and problem solving. Classroom and laboratory activities are supplemented through FFA supervised agricultural experiences, leadership programs and activities.
Animal Science: This course engages students in hands-on laboratories and activities to explore the world of animal agriculture. Student experiences will involve the study of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, nutrition, reproduction, health, selection and marketing. For example, students will acquire skills in meeting the nutritional needs of animals while developing balanced, economical rations. Throughout the course, students will consider the perceptions and preferences of individuals within local, regional, and world markets.
Food Science: Food Science and Safety is a course full of hands-on activities, projects, and problems that simulate actual concepts and situations found in the food science and safety industry, allowing students to build content knowledge and technical skills. Students maintain a research level Laboratory Notebook throughout the course documenting their experiences in the laboratory. Research and experimental design will be highlighted as students develop and conduct industry appropriate investigations. Students investigate, experiment, and learn about documenting a project, solving problems, and communicating solutions to their peers and members of the professional community.
Introduction to Agriculture: Students participating in the Introduction to Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources course will experience 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 and work in teams.
Plant Science: This course teaches students the form and function of plant systems. Students experience various plant science concepts through inquiry-based exercises filled with activities, projects, and problems utilizing laboratory and practical experiences. Student experiences will include the study of plant anatomy and physiology, classification, and the fundamentals of production and harvesting. Students will learn how to apply scientific knowledge and skills to use plants effectively for agricultural and horticultural production. Students will discover the value of plant production and its impact on the individual, the local, and the global economy.
Wildlife and Natural Resource Science: This course delves into the environment, natural resources, ecosystems, soils, land use, chemicals in the environment, and water and air quality. Additionally, this course includes instruction on the history of wildlife management, ecological concepts, habitat assessment, habitat management techniques for wildlife, population dynamics, predator-prey relationships, wildlife species biology and identification, human-wildlife conflict resolution, the role of hunting in conservation, game and fish laws and regulations, hunters safety, and the application of scientific principles to managing wildlife habitat and populations.