Sarasota County Schools Inaugurates New Agricultural Education Center

Excerpt on Agricultural Learning Facility Development

Construction on the expansive 40-acre facility commenced in 2023, focusing on enhancing agricultural infrastructure and developing barns that exemplify leading farming practices. The second phase introduced a spacious covered multi-purpose area, an advanced greenhouse, aquaculture and hydroponics systems, along with a dedicated food science demonstration kitchen.

“The emphasis here is experience-based learning in agriculture and developing agricultural literacy. Our students do that through supervised agricultural experiences. We function as a community farm, providing a space for raising livestock that students might not have the opportunity to raise at home. This site also acts as a satellite campus for Sarasota High School, where students attend on block schedules to pursue industry certificates in agriculture, aquaculture, and culinary arts,” stated Kate Traugott, Farm Manager for Sarasota County Schools.

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The facility aims not only to educate but also to enhance food production, streamlining the farm-to-cafeteria process and providing students with pathways into agriculture-related careers immediately after graduation.

“Our greenhouse and diverse facilities, including the husbandry area for cattle, hog farms, and goat farms, offer experiences that are rare in a residential setting. Due to code enforcement, students typically miss out on these hands-on experiences of raising cattle and engaging in agricultural activities that are vital for their education,” explained Terry Connor, Superintendent for Sarasota County Schools.

“My favorite aspect of this work is its convergence of science and art. I cherish the opportunity to share this intersection with our students while engaging in creative problem solving each day,” Traugott concluded.

Key Information

• Location: 40-acre facility.
• Construction Start: 2023.
• Facilities Include: Greenhouse, aquaculture, hydroponics, food science demonstration kitchen.
• Community Role: Satellite campus for Sarasota High School.
• Focus Areas: Agriculture, aquaculture, culinary arts.
• Goals: Experience-based learning, increase food production, career preparation in agriculture.