Harris Agriscience Center

harris

Based on the School-to-Career model, the Donald F. Harris Sr. AgriScience & Technology Center provides an educational environment for Bloomfield and regional students, where academic achievement is stressed through disciplined, hands-on work with environmental issues, plant science, animal science, aquaculture, and technology. Preparing students for further education in these disciplines and for future jobs that will benefit each individual as well as society is the primary goal of the staff of the Center.

The Bloomfield D.F. Harris AgriScience program is a member of the Agricultural Science and Technology Education Schools. ASTE schools prepare students for college and careers in animal science, agribusiness, agricultural mechanics, aquaculture, biotechnology, food science, marine technology, natural resources and horticulture (greenhouse / floral design / landscaping). Similar to interdistrict magnet schools, several of these programs provide opportunities for students to receive college credit in high school. The D.F. Harris AgriScience Center at Bloomfield High School is one of three ASTE programs in the Greater Hartford Region that is an option for students entering 9th grade.

What is the focus of the Harris AgriScience Center?

Located on the campus of Bloomfield High School, the Harris AgriScience Center provides educational opportunities in the fields of animal science, aquaculture, natural resources , and horticulture (greenhouse / landscaping / floral design). The fundamental mission of the Harris AgriScience and Technology Center is to support the goals and aspirations of its students by providing high-quality educational opportunities focused on developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success.

What are the three qualities you think are most important for students to know when they are considering your school for application?

the alignment of the Agricultural Food and Natural Resource standards and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), along with the successful integration of each of the three components of agriculture education results in ta strong program that produces well-rounded individuals who are prepared to be leaders in agriculture, business, and industry. Agricultural education is delivered through three components:

  1. Classroom/Laboratory instruction - Students participate in hands-on, rigorous curriculum which combines agriculture and science, as well as employment and leadership skills. During class, students work in the programs labs as well as offsite, utilizing community resources.

  2. Work Experience - All AgriScience students participate in a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) which allows the to gain work experience in their agricultural area of interest. Students may work for an agricultural business, volunteer for an agriculturally related non-profit organization, and/or start their own agricultural business. Additionally, students may also perform an in-depth research experiment to find a solution or improvement to a challenge in the agricultural industry.

  3. Leadership Education - All AgriScience students are members of the National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Organization. Students participate in leadership activities during class and after school to develop their skills in public speaking, personal organization, goal attainment, team management, and community service.

Special Features

  • Earn college credits through Early College Experience (ECE) University of Connecticut, Post University, Capital and Manchester Community College

  • Competitive and award winning athletic program at the Varsity and Jr. Varsity levels.

  • Designated Communities for Music Education

  • Metropolitan District Commission (MDC), CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and university, college and business partnerships

Sports, Clubs and Activities

Students have the opportunity to participate in Intramural/interscholastic athletics at Bloomfield High School, National Honor Society, National French and Spanish Honor Society, National FFA Organization, Model UN, Color Guard and Drill Teams, Music Club, and many many more. Go to https://www.bloomfieldschools.org for additional information.

Application Process

The Harris AgriScience Center, an ASTE school, is an option for students entering 9th grade. Students do not apply to an ASTE school through the Hartford Regional School Choice Office (RSCO) application but must apply separately.

We are Accepting Applications

Please visit this link and complete the application with your parent / guardian and school counselor.

Application (English)
Application (Spanish)
Application (Portuguese) 

The Harris AgriScience Center
5 Huckleberry Lane
Bloomfield, CT 06002
Phone: 860-286-2630 X 1520
Email us: agriscience@blmfld.org