We, the families and businesses of the Sonoma Valley Unified School District, believe we need a strong undergraduate agricultural program in Sonoma.  Not every student that attends SVHS is destined for a four-year college experience.  We need to have multiple paths to engage students’ interests and allow them to discover future career paths.

We have an infrastructure in place, including the school farm, a vineyard, a greenhouse, as well as animal husbandry facilities.  We also have a welding shop with modern welding equipment and a small engine repair shop.

The District has had a full year to hire a replacement for the welding, small engine repair, and viticulture position.  Five years ago we had three teachers supporting the Ag program.  Today we have only one.  These responsibilities are not manageable for 1 FTE person and that is not acceptable to our community.

SVHS developed an AgriTechnology Academy and has woefully neglected to promote and sustain this program even though there has been tremendous community support, and interest by the student population.

Both middle schools in town have a thriving school farm and horticulture program which are very popular, but this pathway is not continued at SVHS.  It would seem to be a perfect match to pair Culinary with Horticulture and expand the farm-to-table experience. 

These electives need to be supported from the top down, including counselors promoting these electives and not just the college prep electives.