Junior High Technology: This course introduces and studies the different types of technology we use in our everyday life; technology of communication, manufacturing, construction, transportation, agriculture related and bio-related. Also introduces students to common tools and equipment. A small wood project will be made.

 

Applied Science in Agriculture I and II: Taught second semester because of maple syrup production, this course is usually taken as the two beginning agriculture classes in high school. Basic knowledge in breeds of livestock, common livestock and aquaculture production methods, soil components and controlling soil water losses, crop plant morphology, classification, reproduction, and agricultural technologies associated with raising crops and producing maple syrup, wildlife identification and management, basic forestry management, safe use and maintenance of tools and equipment, introduction to small gas engines, home wiring and arc welding.

 

Applied Science in Agriculture III: Taught second semester because of maple syrup production, this course advances the skills students learned in Ag I and II. Students can work on individual projects from home or class projects. Oxy-acetylene welding is also taught in this class.

 

Plant and Animal Science: This course is for students who have successfully completed the Living Environment coursework.. It covers basic plant science, microbiology, classification, plant morphology, plant physiology, and plant breeding and reproduction. General information for crop production is also covered for corn production, forage crops, small grain production and other crops. This course also covers the economics of animal production and the livestock industry, feeding and nutrition, animal breeding, consumer trends and animal production, animal safety, animal breeds and animal rights/animal welfare. The animals generally covered are beef and dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, poultry, and rabbits. Some alternative animals such as fish farming, bison, ratites, and llamas are touched upon.

 

Bio-technology Applications in Agriculture: This course takes the information gained in plant and animal science to the next level. Top students in science will be introduced to biotechnology through genetics and genetic engineering. Impacts of biotechnology and microbial biotechnology (environmental impacts and laws, ethical issues, benefits to production agriculture, the food industry, and the environment) will be discussed. The impacts of biotechnology in plant and animal science on production agriculture will be shown through micropropagation and tissue culture.

Environmental Science Applications in Agriculture: This is a dual credit course offered for top students in science who wish to study college-level work while in high school. Students enrolled in this class have the option of receiving three SUNY college credits. This course will introduce students to a global perspective on environmental science, ecosystems, water, air, land, food, population dynamics, biodiversity and solid waste management. There is a required reading: A Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold. Pre-requisites for these classes are that the student must have earned an 85 or higher on the Living Environment regents exam OR permission of the instructor.