Carroll County Schools today cut the ribbon on a 10-acre Agricultural Education Center featuring garden space, pastures, animal handling facility and equipment storage. Spurred by a $190,000 contribution from the Pilgrim’s Hometown Strong program in 2021, other community sponsors and volunteers rallied to the project which is located on the campus of Central Middle School.

“Agriculture is a vital part of our local and state economy, and we are very appreciative to Pilgrim’s Pride and other local partners for investing in our students.” Superintendent Scott Cowart said. “This facility enhances our ability to impact students in a field of study that will positively impact our community for many years to come.”

About 10 acres of school property was cleared and fenced for livestock. A new entrance off Cedar Heights Road serves a pole barn with enclosed space for storage. Two heifers and two goats have already taken up residence on site. A new gravel walking trail connects the agriculture facility to Central Middle.

Career, Technical and Agricultural Education Director Cindy Clanton said while the facility is located at Central Middle, it is available to serve the entire school system. 

“This is a central location where we already owned property,” Clanton said. “The facility is available to serve all our agriculture programs, and we know it can greatly enhance our real-world, hands-on instruction especially in animal science.” 

Community partners and volunteers joined school officials and representatives from Pilgrim’s at the ribbon cutting ceremony which was led by students.

“Agricultural education is vital to the future of our local community,” Pilgrim’s Carrollton Complex Manager James Bradford said, “and Pilgrim’s is thrilled that our $190,000 investment will help ensure future generations of Carroll County students will receive that education right here in our own community.”

During 2022, Carroll County ranked 21st out of Georgia’s 159 counties with a total Farm Gate Value of nearly $220 million. Carroll County Schools is a leader in agricultural education with award winning programs offered for middle and high school students.