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The Agricultural Education Program for grades 10, 11 and 12 prepares students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, and natural resources systems. The courses available within the Agricultural Education Program introduce the students to the fundamental principles of the ornamental horticulture industry and include Agriscience, Introduction to Horticulture, Landscape Design, Installation, and Maintenance, and Turfgrass Science and Management. It is a three-component program with classroom instruction, membership in the FFA and a supervised agriculture experience project that will prepare students for entry-level jobs within the industry or for post-secondary studies at both the county college and university levels.

The courses review many of the industries and agribusinesses associated with ornamental horticulture in the areas of greenhouse management, landscaping, and sports turf and golf course maintenance. The program emphasizes entry-level skills and students are trained in agriscience and environmental and natural resources education. Computer skills, job-seeking skills, related academics and communication, social and study skills are also included.

The program stresses leadership, personal growth, and career success through participation in the FFA, a national organization for students enrolled in approved Agricultural Education Programs and represents the growing diversity of agriculture. There are over half a million members participating in a wide range of activities leading to over 300 career choices in the science, business, and technology of today’s agriculture.

The Cape May Tech FFA Chapter is a nationally recognized 3-Star Chapter, the highest rating possible, and its members are equally recognized on the local, state and national levels for their success and commitment to agricultural education. Cape May Tech has the distinction of being the only approved three-component Agricultural Education Program in Cape May County.

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