FFA chapter chartered at Biotechnology H.S.

FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP - Agricul-tural education has grown to encompass a wide range of technological and scientific advances in the fields of agriculture, food and natural resources. To prepare students to enter those fields, agricultural education can now be found in some of the most progressive educational institutions including the new Biotechnology High School, a career academy in the Monmouth County Vocational School District.

According to a press release from the state Department of Agriculture, the state's 37th FFA chapter was chartered last week at Biotechnology High School, Kozloski Road.

In attendance for the event were New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Charles M. Kuperus, acting Commissioner of Education Lucille E. Davy, and Dr. Larry Case, national FFA adviser and program coordinator for the U.S. Department of Education.

"In order to ensure continued economic growth in New Jersey and the agricultural industry, specifically, we must strengthen students' math and science skills and align education and training strategies with employer needs in the industry," said Kuperus. "There is a great need for new workers in the food, agriculture and natural resources industries in the state. They need to possess the specialized skills Biotechnology High School is teaching its students, and the addition of an FFA chapter will help students develop leadership, personal and career skills to become the future leaders in these important industries."

"The Department of Education is pleased to welcome New Jersey's newest FFA chapter at Biotechnology High School," said Davy. "Through this chapter, members will have opportunities to participate and develop their knowledge, skills and leadership in local, state, national and international FFA programs. I encourage the students to take full advantage of the opportunities FFA provides and strive for excellence in everything they do."

According to a press release, agricultural biotechnology education is an integral part of the curriculum at Biotechnology High School, which opened its doors to the first students in 2005. Students receive extensive exposure to research and lab skills, ethical decision making, critical thinking, problem-solving and information technology.

Principal Linda Eno said the biotechnology of agriculture deals with the genetic modification of plants to increase output and reduce pesticide use and the adaptation of plants for difficult environments. She said agriculture fits well with the mission of the school.

"We see agriculture as a fundamental application and career," said Eno. "With the addition of an FFA chapter, students will be able to apply classroom theory and lab skills to real-life situations through internships and experiential learning; then combine it with personal and leadership development to be ready for a college and career experience. FFA also will provide top students with local, state and national recognition through awards and scholarships."

It is the mission of the Monmouth County Vocational School District to help create an able workforce for industry in New Jersey. The new high school attracts students who want a career academy experience, and students are selected through a stringent application process. For more information, visit the school's Internet Web site at www.bths.mcvsd.org.

FFA, a national youth organization with 37 chapters and 1,684 students in New Jersey, prepares students for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. FFA uses agricultural science education to develop students' potential and help them discover their talent. Through hands-on experience, members develop tools that help them achieve real-world success. They also learn life skills necessary to ensure the social, civic, and economic well being of New Jersey local communities.

According to the press release, FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

for a college and career experience. FFA also will provide top students with local, state and national recognition through awards and scholarships."

It is the mission of the Monmouth County Vocational School District to help create an able work force for industry in New Jersey. The new high school attracts students who want a career academy experience, and students are selected through a stringent application process. For more information, visit the school's Internet Web site at www.bths.mcvsd.org.

FFA, a national youth organization with 37 chapters and 1,684 students in New Jersey, prepares students for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. FFA uses agricultural science education to develop students' potential and help them discover their talent. Through hands-on experience, members develop tools that help them achieve real-world success. They also learn life skills necessary to ensure the social, civic, and economic well being of New Jersey local communities.

According to the press release, FFA strives to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.