HHS expands Agriculture course offerings/redesigns facility

The Hallettsville High School Agriculture Science Department continues to prove its relevance in today’s fast-changing world. The program has a history of positively impacting students through a variety of course offerings and that has never been more true than this year.

The department now has three Ag Science instructors, who also serve as Hallettsville FFA Advisors.

Recently, the department went through a remodeling project in the Ag Science building where it expanded an existing classroom space, while also adding a third classroom as well as new office space.

Over the years, the Ag Science department has grown in course offerings and now includes courses that span several pathways.

All students begin their career by taking Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources and following the course they may choose from several options.

An Animal Science pathway includes classes in Small Animal Management, Equine Science, Veterinary Medical Applications, Advanced Animal Science, and provides the opportunity for students to become certified as a TVMA Level 1 Veterinarian Assistant.

A Plant Science pathway will include classes in Animal & Plant Science, Floral Design, Advanced Floral Design, and Wildlife, Fisheries, & Ecology Management with these courses providing the opportunity to become TSFA Level 1 and 2 certified, as well as TPWD Hunter Ed and Boater Ed certified.

Another pathway, Ag Mechanics, offers students the opportunity to complete courses in Shop Safety, Woodworking, Arc and MIG Welding, and Metal Fabrication.

In addition the department is home to the Hallettsville FFA Chapter where its members take advantage of the opportunities offered and have continued to excel.

The Senior Farm Skills LDE team advanced to the State contest at Sam Houston State University and six others teams advanced to the Area contest this past season.

The FFA judging teams had great success during the spring CDE season, including the Meats, Dairy Cattle, Range, and Farm Business Management teams all advancing to the State contests in their respective events.

Commercial Steer exhibitors continue to be successful at major stock shows as well as poultry and swine exhibitors.

Also members can participate in a variety of other events including public speaking contests and a shooting sports program.

“The Hallettsville HS Ag Science Department and Hallettsville FFA Chapter continue to work hard to uphold the high standards and traditions of success that the community expects,” HISD superintendant, Dr. Jo Ann Bludau said. “The student members have more opportunities than ever before and the district is proud to offer such a program for its students.”

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Information for this article was provided and composed by HISD staf