For more than five decades, the annual plant sale has remained the culminating celebration of the Horticulture and Agriscience Program at the Career Elevation and Technology Center (CETC). The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of plant and animal production, equipping them with the necessary skills for a successful career.

Lauren Hart, Agriscience Instructor at the CETC, stresses the importance of the program, stating, “Through agriculture education, students embark on a journey of leadership development, personal growth, and career readiness.” Spanning a diverse curriculum that includes Introduction to Agriscience, Advanced Agriscience, Agribusiness, animal science courses, and greenhouse management, the program offers a hands-on approach to learning.

Students are involved in all facets of the plant sale; “they select the seeds and materials to order at the beginning of the year, scheduling, planting, caring for the plants, and working with customers during the sale,” said Hart. “The greenhouse must be cared for seven days a week, and students are attending the greenhouse during class, after school, weekends, and during school breaks.”

The CETC greenhouse aims to be self-sufficient. Profits made from this year’s plant sale will be used to support the materials and products needed for next year’s sale. “With the proceeds made, we are also able to support students to attend leadership and competitive events through the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization,” shared Hart. “Profits also support students attending agriculture and green industry events and business tours that will benefit them today and throughout their lives as they prepare to be consumers and employees of the world’s largest industry.”

The plant sale has become an eagerly anticipated event. This year, there were over 50 people lined up outside before the sale began. Hart believes that the annual plant sale would not be successful without the support of community members and students. “Our students carry out all management aspects, and to the hundreds of community members and district staff who choose to purchase their plants here, we are grateful to offer such a robust program.”