Agriculture Classes
A huge variety of agriculture classes are available and taught by Mr. Rockhill at Central Lyon. Through his classes, you gain hands on experience in and out of the classroom. From practicing sutures to researching diseases, you will find a class that sparks your interest. The list includes:
Ag Welding- This course will be into two different sections; the first being arc welding and the second being project construction. Arc welding will be taught in the Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory, where students will learn welding safety and how to arc weld at four different positions; flat, vertical up, vertical down, and horizontal methods. Next, the student will learn about the Mig welder, and how to weld in flat, horizontal, and vertical methods. Students will then be prepared to begin project construction.
Intro to Ag- Intro to Agriculture is a yearlong, co-educational, elective course, available to freshmen with no pre-requisite. Through instruction in this course, the student will understand all facts of the Animal Science production industry including beef production, sheep production, swine production, understand problem solving methods involved in livestock production, understand the importance of meat production to our society, be exposed to careers available in the Animal Science industry, understand the Future Farmers of American organization, realize many technological changes taking place in the Animal Science industry, practice shop skills and use safety practices in the area of farm construction, carpentry, students will be expected to show a competency in shop skills and safety as well as account for the basic Animal Science and FFA concepts.
Animal Science 1- Take a walk on the wild side receive a more in-depth understanding of animal care and scientific procedures. Through hands-on labs and guided study, learn how to apply animal anatomy, genetics, reproduction, behavior, nutrition, and health to both household pets and large livestock. Basic veterinary procedures and jargon will also be introduced. If you are interested in a career with animals, then this is the course for you! As a result of this course, students will be able to: 1. Identify the anatomy and describe the physiology of body systems. 2. Articulate ideas and participate in discussion related to animal welfare. 3. Determine the role of nutrients and the nutritional requirements for different stages of animal’s lives. 4. Evaluate and employ animal breeding methods. 5. Identify, evaluate and perform general animal care/welfare procedures based on animal’s use, species and life stages. 6. Administer care to animals in case of disease, accident or illness. 7. Conduct research on topics related to animal science. 8. Describe different careers within the field of animal science.
Alternative Ag- Prepare students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems. We will look in depth in the following areas of plants related to agriculture. This course will also teach you about the importance of the agriculture crops, and the relationship they have on our environment. Entomology, Plant Science, Crop Science, Forestry, Soils, Shop
Advanced Animal Science- This course provides an overview of basic practices and skills used in veterinary medicine. Students will learn livestock physiology, ruminant microbiology, small animal care, and dissection and surgical techniques. Industry leadership and business applications will also be included. This course will be taught for students thinking about entering the Animal Science or Veterinary Technician programs. It also helps prepare students for achieving their own personal excellence in agricultural careers, leadership, and life-long learning. This is accomplished by: 1. Exploring and understanding the principles of agriculture industries and careers. 2. Developing life skills necessary for future opportunities and employment. 3. Instilling value in contributing service to organizations, individuals, and the community. 4. Building credible experience in authentic leadership and employment roles.
Biotechnology- This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agriculture and life sciences. Students will be exposed to the latest techniques and advances in plant and animal biotechnology. Students will utilize scientific information for real-life application. The course will be carried out through classroom instruction, lab activities, guest speakers, and field trips when possible. Additionally, as FFA members, they will have the opportunity to travel, participate in competitive events, community projects, and recreational activities.
Veterinary Science- This course provides an overview of basic practices and skills used in veterinary medicine. Students will learn livestock physiology, ruminant microbiology, small animal care, and dissection and surgical techniques. Industry leadership and business applications will also be included. This course will be taught for students thinking about entering the Animal Science or Veterinary Technician programs. It also helps prepare students for achieving their own personal excellence in agricultural careers, leadership, and life-long learning. This is accomplished by: 1. Exploring and understanding the principles of agriculture industries and careers. 2. Developing life skills necessary for future opportunities and employment. 3. Instilling value in contributing service to organizations, individuals, and the community. 4. Building credible experience in authentic leadership and employment roles.
Ag Business- Through this class, you will be able to develop a personal financial management plan that includes savings instruments and credit. You will have to learn how to develop a marketing plan that would include the following methods of marketing cash, forward contracts, futures contracts, and options on futures. Throughout the semester, we will be working on skill, which include a resume letter of application, job application forms, and interview skill. We will also be covering various aspects of business plans, and how to track your profit/loss. Students will complete application forms and evaluate their SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) programs.
Farm Management- The student will be engaged in mostly hands on learning involving the day to day management of a farm (the FFA farm). This will include manure management, animal health, building/repairing fencing, pouring cement, plumbing, pesticide use, vaccinations and proper livestock care. The student will not only be involved in doing these things but actually learn how and more importantly what is safe and proper and where they all fit into the overall management of a farm. I.e. what is the purpose or usefulness of manure in the field?
Food Science with a Twist- Backyard barbeque like you’ve never seen it before. Explore the different cuts of meat, that are utilized for your barbeque. Learn the science behind seasoning, marinating, and smoking the meat that’s popular for the season. The best part is, you get to eat!
Ag Welding- This course will be into two different sections; the first being arc welding and the second being project construction. Arc welding will be taught in the Agricultural Mechanics Laboratory, where students will learn welding safety and how to arc weld at four different positions; flat, vertical up, vertical down, and horizontal methods. Next, the student will learn about the Mig welder, and how to weld in flat, horizontal, and vertical methods. Students will then be prepared to begin project construction.
Intro to Ag- Intro to Agriculture is a yearlong, co-educational, elective course, available to freshmen with no pre-requisite. Through instruction in this course, the student will understand all facts of the Animal Science production industry including beef production, sheep production, swine production, understand problem solving methods involved in livestock production, understand the importance of meat production to our society, be exposed to careers available in the Animal Science industry, understand the Future Farmers of American organization, realize many technological changes taking place in the Animal Science industry, practice shop skills and use safety practices in the area of farm construction, carpentry, students will be expected to show a competency in shop skills and safety as well as account for the basic Animal Science and FFA concepts.
Animal Science 1- Take a walk on the wild side receive a more in-depth understanding of animal care and scientific procedures. Through hands-on labs and guided study, learn how to apply animal anatomy, genetics, reproduction, behavior, nutrition, and health to both household pets and large livestock. Basic veterinary procedures and jargon will also be introduced. If you are interested in a career with animals, then this is the course for you! As a result of this course, students will be able to: 1. Identify the anatomy and describe the physiology of body systems. 2. Articulate ideas and participate in discussion related to animal welfare. 3. Determine the role of nutrients and the nutritional requirements for different stages of animal’s lives. 4. Evaluate and employ animal breeding methods. 5. Identify, evaluate and perform general animal care/welfare procedures based on animal’s use, species and life stages. 6. Administer care to animals in case of disease, accident or illness. 7. Conduct research on topics related to animal science. 8. Describe different careers within the field of animal science.
Alternative Ag- Prepare students for successful careers and a lifetime of informed choices in the global agriculture, food, fiber and natural resources systems. We will look in depth in the following areas of plants related to agriculture. This course will also teach you about the importance of the agriculture crops, and the relationship they have on our environment. Entomology, Plant Science, Crop Science, Forestry, Soils, Shop
Advanced Animal Science- This course provides an overview of basic practices and skills used in veterinary medicine. Students will learn livestock physiology, ruminant microbiology, small animal care, and dissection and surgical techniques. Industry leadership and business applications will also be included. This course will be taught for students thinking about entering the Animal Science or Veterinary Technician programs. It also helps prepare students for achieving their own personal excellence in agricultural careers, leadership, and life-long learning. This is accomplished by: 1. Exploring and understanding the principles of agriculture industries and careers. 2. Developing life skills necessary for future opportunities and employment. 3. Instilling value in contributing service to organizations, individuals, and the community. 4. Building credible experience in authentic leadership and employment roles.
Biotechnology- This course provides instruction in the technologically advanced world of agriculture and life sciences. Students will be exposed to the latest techniques and advances in plant and animal biotechnology. Students will utilize scientific information for real-life application. The course will be carried out through classroom instruction, lab activities, guest speakers, and field trips when possible. Additionally, as FFA members, they will have the opportunity to travel, participate in competitive events, community projects, and recreational activities.
Veterinary Science- This course provides an overview of basic practices and skills used in veterinary medicine. Students will learn livestock physiology, ruminant microbiology, small animal care, and dissection and surgical techniques. Industry leadership and business applications will also be included. This course will be taught for students thinking about entering the Animal Science or Veterinary Technician programs. It also helps prepare students for achieving their own personal excellence in agricultural careers, leadership, and life-long learning. This is accomplished by: 1. Exploring and understanding the principles of agriculture industries and careers. 2. Developing life skills necessary for future opportunities and employment. 3. Instilling value in contributing service to organizations, individuals, and the community. 4. Building credible experience in authentic leadership and employment roles.
Ag Business- Through this class, you will be able to develop a personal financial management plan that includes savings instruments and credit. You will have to learn how to develop a marketing plan that would include the following methods of marketing cash, forward contracts, futures contracts, and options on futures. Throughout the semester, we will be working on skill, which include a resume letter of application, job application forms, and interview skill. We will also be covering various aspects of business plans, and how to track your profit/loss. Students will complete application forms and evaluate their SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) programs.
Farm Management- The student will be engaged in mostly hands on learning involving the day to day management of a farm (the FFA farm). This will include manure management, animal health, building/repairing fencing, pouring cement, plumbing, pesticide use, vaccinations and proper livestock care. The student will not only be involved in doing these things but actually learn how and more importantly what is safe and proper and where they all fit into the overall management of a farm. I.e. what is the purpose or usefulness of manure in the field?
Food Science with a Twist- Backyard barbeque like you’ve never seen it before. Explore the different cuts of meat, that are utilized for your barbeque. Learn the science behind seasoning, marinating, and smoking the meat that’s popular for the season. The best part is, you get to eat!
Field Trips
Many students in Central Lyon Agricultural classes get a chance to apply their skills outside of the classroom. Due to COVID, many of these trips had to be cancelled but our chapter has still found ways to expand its learning opportunities. From going to Stensland Family Farms to working with a vet, you are going to gain skills unlike in any other classroom. After a season of intense competition and hard work, it is also a great reward to celebrate and bond with friends on a fun trip.
Meetings
Meetings are held once a month and are a way for the entire chapter to get an insight on current projects, discuss, and look to future plans. Officers run and assemble meetings and make sure every voice is heard. After the agenda is completed, refreshments are offered as a way to socialize and get to know other members. During the annual pasta meeting, the advisor and officers make a pasta meal to serve to the rest of the chapter. Members learn how to conduct organized thoughts and procedures while also having fun.
Legislative Symposium
During this event, members get to travel to the capitol building to promote character and gain experience. More than 500 members from 70 chapters across Iowa to participate. Through Legislative Symposium you will learn the legislative process, discuss agricultural issues and advocate for agricultural education and FFA.
FFA Farm
Through a generous grant, The Central Lyon FFA Farm has become a unique place where students can raise livestock for fairs, or learn how to manage a farm. A diverse group of livestock have been taken care of at the farm and the chapter has been able to utilize these skills. The beehive has become a staple at the farm and the honey making process has become a business of its own. The school is currently looking at expansion plans to further develop the projects at the Central Lyon FFA Farm.
Petting Zoo
Towards the end of the school year, the Central Lyon FFA hosts a local petting zoo to educate the community about livestock and other animals. Central Lyon FFA members bring their animals to the school and let the children view them. The petting zoo is a fun way to get people exposed to animals while also teaching them about different breeds.
National FFA Week
National FFA Week is held during the week of George Washington's birthday, a man who symbolizes a diligent farmer and agriculturist. Schools across the country celebrate by hosting local events. In Central Lyon, students plan dress up days and competitions to engage involvement. At the end of the week, the schools holds FFA Olympics. Teachers, staff, and students compete in unique relay games to win the final prize.
Educating Below High School
In Central Lyon ag education begins early on in elementary. A few times a month, students get to travel up to the ag room to learn all about animals and other agriculture concepts. Many FFA members get to teach these classes or lead projects. Once they reach middle school, students get to experience exploratory classes including an ag class. Through this class they learn about the FFA organization and different components of it. These classes prep students for what directions they want to take in high school and even their future careers.
Senior Trip
The senior trip occurs at the end of the school year and is a great way for the graduated members to bond with the advisor one last time. Usually, the entourage travels to a lakeside cabin and spends the days swimming, cooking, and gathering around the campfire.
Greenhands and Recruitment
Every year, the program relies on the future of new members. This is why we make it a priority to recruit, especially with the freshman. The Greenhands are the first year members in our chapter. During the summer, officers host a game day at the park where we usually play volleyball and other activities with a meal shortly after. Through this day, potential members get to socialize with the chapter's leaders and see themselves in the program.
Lyon County Fair
Over the year, FFA members raise livestock to show at the local fair. The Lyon County Fair is held in Rock Rapids, IA, our hometown. People from multiple schools and organizations show livestock at the fair to present their commitment to taking care of an animal.