Students in agricultural science classes at Greenbrier East High School are actively learning both in- and outside the classroom.
FFA offers four different program areas: animal systems, plant systems, power and technology and natural resource management. These are the largest agricultural areas in the Greenbrier Valley, and FFA advisors work to prepare students for their future careers. These programs provide the knowledge students need to gain skills they can use to further develop their abilities.
In natural resource management, students learn about wildlife management, soils, forest plant species, forest harvest and marketing and water conservation. After completing natural resource management, students advance to the forestry and wildlife and fisheries management class. This class consists of dendrology, conservation, wildlife habitats, aquatic ecosystems and career exploration.
Power and technology students dig deep into skills in woodworking, metal fabrication, plumbing and electrical. Students work on projects specific to each of these areas in a shop setting after passing safety exams to ensure proper use of shop tools and equipment. Students then enter to the advanced welding and repair class, where they are able to continue their knowledge of the agriculture mechanics industry.
The animal systems program covers both large and small animals. Students learn everything from breeds of animals and terms to breeding and production methods. The advanced-level livestock production class is blocked with small animal care. This class is currently in the process of breeding rabbits which gives students a sense of responsibility while learning reproduction, genetics and care.
The fourth area is the plant systems program, where students learn plant science and production. The final course in this program operates a florist shop and greenhouse business which gives students real world skills in plant production and sales.
All of these programs give students the skills they need to either go directly into the workforce or continue their education well beyond high school.
In order to be a part of these upper-level courses, students are required to take the introduction to agriculture class. This class allows students the opportunity to explore different areas of agriculture in order to choose a particular pathway. Students have the option to explore FFA, animal production, plant science, agribusiness, mechanics and natural resources.
