Ag Science Open House a Hit

By Ellen R. Delisio

Twenty-First Century students gained some insight into agricultural careers and topics during a visit to the annual Agricultural Science and Technology program open house at Middletown High School.

The event, which has taken place for more than 20 years, showcases projects and research that students in the program have prepared over periods ranging from a month to years. Displays focus on the program’s concentrations of plant science, animal science, agricultural mechanics and natural resources.

Visiting sixth-through-eighth graders climbed on tractors, watched a student use a laser to burn images into wood and cut out discs and viewed a demonstration of hydro power, among other activities and displays.

Animals were a big draw, and there were plenty to pet and handle, including lizards, a gecko and a giant cockroach, as well as rabbits, and a cat and a dog that are among the program’s animal ambassadors.

Several students eagerly petted two horses while others were more cautious. “Those are big horses,” said William. Several were excited to pet the dog. “I like seeing the dogs, they are my favorite animal,” said another student, Emma. “We used to have a dog.”

Hamsters racing along a track in hollow balls also drew an appreciative audience. “The hamsters and the laser were my favorite,” said Luis, a Keigwin student. “I like how the laser cut out the disc.”

Students also collected carnations from one of the horticulture rooms, learned about gardening and some of the issues facing agriculture, as well as the varied careers in the field.

Twenty-First Century is a good way to spend afternoons, Luis added. “I like playing Minecraft and my friends are here.”