PEMBROKE – The future of agriculture is taking root at Purnell Swett High School, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local agriculture students. A brand-new agriculture education area named the “Agri-Learning Area”, has been designed and constructed by agriculture students and offers an invaluable hands-on learning environment for agricultural mechanics, horticulture and animal science classes.
Over the course of approximately four weeks, students transformed an unused area into a thriving educational space. Their hard work and collaborative spirit are evident in every corner of the plot. Central to the new area are raised garden beds, meticulously constructed by students, providing an ideal setting for horticulture studies and plant cultivation.
Further enhancing the plot's capabilities is a newly-built shadehouse, offering a controlled environment perfect for nurturing sensitive plants. For those interested in animal science, students also constructed a goat enclosure and a secure chicken enclosure, providing practical experience in animal care and management. The entire Agri-Learning Area is safely enclosed by a fence, also built by students, demonstrating their skills in agricultural mechanics and construction.
The next step for this dynamic learning area will be the planting of ornamental horticulture plants. These additions will provide students with essential resources for studying plant identification, further broadening their horticultural knowledge. While the main construction is complete, there's still some finishing work to be done, including the addition of mulch and other landscaping features, which will further enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the plot.
The Purnell Swett FFA Chapter would like to extend its sincere gratitude to its partners, including AgCarolina Farm Credit, for their support in making this project a reality.
FFA Advisers Taleek Harlee, Leonard “Silas” Easter and Isaiah Brown are all incredibly excited about the opportunities this new area will bring to their students.
“Having this newly renovated area will only increase the educational opportunities that our students will have by offering hands-on experiential learning through horticulture, agriculture mechanics, and animal science,” PSHS FFA Adviser Taleek Harlee said.
The impact of this student-led project is already clear to those who participated.
“Being able to be a part of this project was great! I was able to be a part of this project from start to finish and it’s great seeing how it has turned out,” said Xzavier Hunt, a student at the school.
This impressive undertaking not only provides a dynamic learning space but also showcases the practical skills and dedication of the students involved. The Agri-Learning Area will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone for future agricultural education, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the vital role agriculture plays in the school community.