Agriculture Cluster

12 credits required for graduation 
 

The environment is directly impacted by human interaction. The Bio-Science program is specifically designed to observe, test and solve environmental issues that affect our living space. Through project based learning, students study all habitats and plant and animal life that inhabits each.

This multifaceted program connects to all levels of the environment including fresh and wastewater management, plant propagation and greenhouse management, fresh and saltwater aquatics, small animal care, forestry and landscape design.

Students participate in internships as docents for The Mystic Aquarium and Work Based Learning (WBL) for local fresh and wastewater operations.
 

Exploratory and Introduction to Bioscience and Environmental Technology (BT110)

Grade 9 · 3 Credits

All Grade 9 students participate in the Exploratory Program. As students enter the field of Bioscience and Environmental Technology, they are introduced to college opportunities and career pathways, forestry, beach and marine analysis, and plant identification.

Students are instructed in laboratory and field competencies that can be built upon in later years of the technology program and in their science classes. Field trips to local shoreline communities are an important component of the Exploratory Program.

The Common Core for Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as science skills, are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Measurement and Analysis (BT210)

Grade 10 · 3 Credits

Students master laboratory and field competencies through project-based learning. In each project, students learn to analyze data collected in the laboratory or field using scientific methodology.

Course content includes topics such as water treatment and filtration, forestry, wetland conservation, microbiology, classification of living organisms, and stream analysis. Emphasis is placed on protocol procedures and teamwork to promote college preparedness and mirror workplace expectations.

Students are instructed in science-related safety. The Common Core for Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as science skills, are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Managing the Environment (BT310)

Grade 11 · 3 Credits

Students investigate real-world environmental problems and work collaboratively to develop solutions through hands-on, team-based applications.

In addition to production projects, students gain experience in habitat management, aquaculture, biotechnology data-driven mapping, meteorology, global warming, and evolutionary biology. Emphasis is placed on presentations, report writing, and teamwork.

Students are instructed in laboratory and shop safety. Work-Based Learning (WBL) is available to eligible students. The Common Core for Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as science skills, are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Individual Topics in Bioscience (BT410)

Grade 12 · 3 Credits

Students are given the opportunity to reflect on previous experiences from Grades 9–11 and develop a senior project. Each student selects a topic and presents the completed project to a review panel as a component of the final course grade.

All projects incorporate cumulative skills in design, observation, data collection, analysis, and reporting. Written and oral presentations, as well as meeting project deadlines, are important components of the senior-year experience.

Seniors participate in a mentoring program for Grade 9 students, assisting with laboratory procedures and data collection. Students earn various certifications during Grade 12, including OSHA and HAZMAT certifications.

Students are expected to work independently and participate in Work-Based Learning (WBL) when eligible. A performance-based assessment is administered to all seniors prior to graduation.

Industry Credentials & Career Pathways

Students successfully completing this course of study may pursue two-year or four-year degrees in environmental technology, environmental science, biology, ecology, or related scientific fields.

Students may also enter the workforce directly in environmental industries such as aquaculture, habitat management, environmental maintenance, water treatment, conservation, and other natural resource-related careers.

12 credits required for graduation 
 

Exploratory and Introduction to Veterinary Science (VS110)

Grade 9 · 3 Credits

All Grade 9 students participate in the Exploratory Program. Students deciding to enter the field of Veterinary Science are introduced to basic safety and sanitation practices, as well as the identification, husbandry, and handling of canines and felines.

Students also learn basic anatomy and medical terminology. Working with live animals, students perform basic restraint and grooming techniques while developing foundational skills used throughout the veterinary field.

Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Veterinary Science II (VS210)

Grade 10 · 3 Credits

The Veterinary Science program is designed to provide students with practical knowledge and experience working with small animals in a clinic, laboratory, or similar setting.

Building on the knowledge gained in Grade 9, students learn advanced identification, husbandry, handling and restraint techniques, and nutrition for dogs, cats, and rodents. Students also study animal welfare, animal rights, and the ethical considerations that protect animals.

Anatomy and Physiology instruction continues with a focus on the musculoskeletal system, including its structure and function. Students work with live animals to perform advanced handling and restraint techniques, basic clinical procedures, and grooming.

Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Veterinary Science III (VS310)

Grade 11 · 3 Credits

Students gain practical knowledge and experience working with large animals. Instruction includes the identification, husbandry, handling and restraint, and nutrition of horses, ruminants, pigs, and other large animals.

Students also learn about computerized filing systems commonly used in veterinary practices. Anatomy and Physiology studies continue with a focus on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and their functions.

Working with live animals, students perform advanced handling and restraint techniques, basic clinical procedures, and grooming. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work-Based Learning (WBL).

Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Veterinary Science IV (VS410)

Grade 12 · 3 Credits

Students gain practical knowledge and experience working with miscellaneous large animals and exotic pets. Instruction includes the identification, husbandry, handling and restraint, and nutrition of reptiles, birds, and indigenous wildlife.

Students study animal pharmacology, advanced clinical procedures, and laboratory procedures. Anatomy and Physiology instruction continues with a focus on the lymphatic and digestive systems and their functions.

Working with live animals, students perform advanced handling and restraint techniques, basic clinical and laboratory procedures, and grooming. Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work-Based Learning (WBL).

Each student completes the Senior Summative Assessment, a computerized interactive examination. Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Industry Credentials & Career Pathways

Students successfully completing this course of study may pursue a two-year degree in veterinary technology or a four-year pre-veterinary medicine degree.

Students may also enter the workforce directly in the veterinary science field. Career opportunities include groomer, kennel attendant, farmhand, animal control officer, laboratory animal caretaker, veterinary assistant, veterinary technician, and veterinarian.

Additional opportunities exist in animal care facilities, research laboratories, agricultural operations, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and other animal-related professions.