State grants help schools expand ag and tech programs

By Andi Anderson

Two school districts have been awarded state grants to improve vocational education opportunities. West Branch Local Schools and United Local Schools cooperatively secured funding from the State of Ohio for innovative programs in agriculture and technology.

West Branch received over $300,000 to build a live animal barn and develop a drone program in partnership with United Local Schools. The barn, to be constructed on campus pastureland, will allow agricultural students to raise quality beef for the school’s meal program. In addtition, the drone program will enhance learning opportunities in agricultural technology, with plans to expand its use across other subjects.

Earlier this year, West Branch also received $40,000 through the Grow Ohio Grant. This funding aims to boost the district’s farm-to-table and work-based learning initiatives. The program will expand produce-growing capacity and introduce animal husbandry, giving students hands-on experience in livestock management and sustainable farming practices.

Students will also learn about financial management, including budgeting and cost analysis, with guidance from local agricultural partners such as Heritage Cooperative and Sharp Farms. Food grown and raised in these programs will be incorporated into the school’s meal offerings, providing students access to fresh, locally sourced produce and meat.

United Local Schools received $744,464 through the Career Technical Education Equipment grant to enhance training resources. State officials emphasize that this investment in updated equipment will prepare students for future careers.

“Investing in our schools and making sure they have updated equipment for training is an investment into our students’ futures,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Providing the opportunity for more schools to purchase equipment so they can train additional students will set them – and our state – up for success.”

This collaborative effort highlights a commitment to fostering education that blends traditional learning with innovative, hands-on experience, setting students on a path toward future success in agriculture and technology.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska