BURGAW, NC - Pender County Schools hosted its second annual Agriculture Day (AG Day) today at Penderlea Farms, once again providing students with a hands-on experience in the world of farming and agriculture.
This year's event welcomed approximately 900 elementary school students from across the district, engaging them in a variety of educational activities. Students explored different aspects of agriculture, from crop cultivation to animal husbandry, and learned about the essential role agriculture plays in their daily lives.
Pender County Schools Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove highlighted the value of hands-on learning experiences like AG Day, stating, "It's crucial for our students to understand the significance of agriculture in our community and beyond. Events like this bridge classroom learning with real-world applications."
Students participated in interactive demonstrations led by local agricultural experts and high school students involved in Future Farmers of America (FFA). They gained insights into sustainable farming practices, agricultural technology, and the role of agriculture in food production and distribution.
A special highlight of this year's AG Day was the return of Pender High School graduate Austin Alexander, a 2023 alumnus and a product of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Austin participated in the apprenticeship program during high school and now works for Quality Equipment in Wallace, North Carolina. His journey from student to skilled professional serves as an inspiration to current students considering careers in agriculture and related industries.
"We're thrilled to see our students actively engaged and eager to learn about agriculture," said Dominique Bates, Pender County Schools Director of Career & Technical Education. "Having Austin return to share his success story demonstrates the real-world impact of our CTE programs and the opportunities available for our students."
Pender County Schools AG Day at Penderlea Farms continues to serve as a valuable platform for students to develop a deeper appreciation for the agricultural industry while strengthening connections between the school community and local farmers.
