Union County Public Schools (UCPS) is pleased to announce that the Board of Education has approved the proposal to expand the Agrotechnology (AgTech) program to the Piedmont Cluster schools and Marshville Elementary, starting in the fall of 2025. This significant expansion will allow more students to gain valuable skills in the growing field of agricultural technology and align with the district’s educational offerings to prepare students for college and/or the workforce.
AgTech integrates cutting-edge technology with traditional agricultural practices to improve efficiency and sustainability in the agriculture industry. The program introduces students to different career paths in agriculture, including agribusiness, biotechnology, sustainable systems and beyond.
AgTech is currently offered at Union Elementary, Wingate Elementary, East Union Middle and Forest Hills High. Beginning in the fall of 2025, AgTech will be offered at Marshville Elementary, New Salem Elementary, Fairview Elementary, Unionville Elementary and Piedmont Middle. Piedmont High will launch in the fall of 2026.
“This expansion of the AgTech program is another step forward in our mission to provide students with unique, real-world learning opportunities. Agriculture plays a critical role in Union County, and by integrating advanced technology with agricultural education, we are preparing students for future careers. I’m proud of the innovative work happening in our schools and excited to see how this program will benefit even more students and families,” said Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan.
The Piedmont and Forest Hills areas have nearly 100 farms that play an important role in Union County's agriculture. These farms grow field crops, raise livestock and produce fruits, forming the foundation of the county's farming industry. The growth of AgTech supports this industry and helps prepare students for future jobs in this essential field.
Piedmont Middle and Piedmont High already have thriving agricultural education programs, with 431 students and 276 students enrolled, respectively. These programs provide a strong foundation for the upcoming AgTech curriculum, which will build upon their existing success.
The AgTech program has already proven to be a valuable asset, with Forest Hills High students earning more than 760 industry credentials. AgTech students have demonstrated strong academic performance, consistent attendance and positive engagement with school activities, showcasing the program’s ability to inspire students and develop a deeper connection to their education.
The AgTech curriculum spans from kindergarten through high school:
- K-5: Career awareness and foundational agricultural sciences
- 6-8: Career exploration in areas like biotechnology and robotics
- 9-12: Career specialization with pathways in agribusiness, sustainable systems, pre-vet and more
Several state tests are part of the curriculum. They include the Science End-of-Grade tests for fifth and eighth grades, as well as the Biology End-of-Course tests.
AgTech is supported by partnerships with Wingate University, the NC Cooperative Extension, and South Piedmont Community College. These partnerships provide students with practical, hands-on learning opportunities and access to valuable industry expertise.
With AgTech's expansion, UCPS is committed to improving academic outcomes, aligning career pathways with post-secondary opportunities and preparing students for the growing agricultural industry.
11/21/2024
