Agricultural & Biomedical Sciences

FFA Chapter

FFA Mission Statement

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture education.

2020 Virtual FFA Banquet and Awards Ceremony - Please join us in celebrating the 2019-2020 school year by viewing the attached PowerPoint. FFA Officers and Advisors have recorded sound clips, so be sure to click on each of the "speaker" icons on each slide. Thank you and congratulations to all award recipients!

High School FFA

Current Officers

Activities/Events

Fundraisers

FFA Links

Middle School FFA

Website

Website

FFA Motto

Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve

Faculty Advisors

Mr. Adam Serfass

Mr. Serfass became an instructor in the Agriculture Department in 2008. He earned a Bachelor of Science from The Pennsylvania State University in Agricultural and Extension Education. In 2015, he earned a Master of Education from North Carolina State University in Agricultural Education.

Mr. Serfass has Pennsylvania teaching certifications in Agriculture Science, Biology, and General Science and teaches a variety of courses, both in the Agriculture Department and Science Department. He primarily teaches Introduction to Agricultural Science, Current Topics in Agriculture, AP Environmental Science, Experiments in Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, and oversees the Teaching/Laboratory Assistant (TLA) program. Mr. Serfass is also co-advisor of the Conrad Weiser FFA chapter and faculty advisor of the Conrad Weiser Science Research Initiative.

Email: a_serfass@conradweiser.org

Mrs. Tabitha Meredith

Mrs. Meredith became an instructor in the Agriculture Department in 1999. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from The University of Delaware majoring in Animal Science and Agricultural Education. In 2003, she earned a Master of Science from Wilkes University in Education.

Mrs. Meredith has a Pennsylvania teaching certification in Agriculture Science and teaches all Middle School Agriculture courses for 5^th, 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grades. She is also the advisor of the Conrad Weiser Middle School FFA chapter and faculty advisor of the Jr. Envirothon Team.

Email: t_meredith@conradweiser.org

Mr. John Siefert

Mr. Siefert became an instructor in the Agriculture Department in 2009. He earned a Bachelor of Science from the Pennsylvania State University in Agricultural and Extension Education. In 2016, he earned a Master of Science from the University of Maryland in Chemical and Life Sciences.

Mr. Siefert has Pennsylvania teaching certifications in Agriculture Science, Biology, General Science, and Environmental Science. He splits his teaching responsibilities between the Agriculture Department and Science Department, teaching Biology, Introduction to Agricultural Science, Biotechnology, Microbiology, and oversees the Landscape Laboratory Intern Program. In addition, Mr. Siefert is also co-advisor of the Conrad Weiser FFA chapter and faculty advisor of the Conrad Weiser Science Research Initiative.

Email: j_siefert@conradweiser.org

Ms. Julie Bennick

Ms. Bennick became an instructor in the Science Department in 2017. She earned three Bachelor of Arts degrees from West Virginia University in Anthropology, Criminology and Sociology. In 2015, she earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Central Lancashire in Forensic Anthropology. She is currently finishing her Master of Education in Secondary Education from Saint Joseph’s University. She teaches Anatomy and Physiology I and II and Introduction to Forensics.

Email: j_bennick@conradweiser.org

Course Offerings

Agricultural and Biomedical Sciences Courses

High School Agricultural Science

The Agricultural Science curriculum is designed to expose students to the diversity of the agricultural industry. The curriculum includes both traditional courses as well as independent study courses that allow for individualized exploration into topics of interest. For more detailed information about graduation requirements and course offerings, view the High School Program of Studies.

(8001) Introduction to Agriculture Science - 1.00 Credit

This course will introduce the student to the broad discipline of Agriculture Science, which has careers tied to the food, fiber, energy and natural resource industries. Topics investigated will include an introduction to animal and plant science, integrated pest management (IPM), soil science, microbiology, and agriculture and the environment. Leadership development and public speaking skills are taught to increase self-confidence and sharpen communication skills needed for success in a competitive society. Laboratory skills are developed through a series of investigations. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 9th &10th grades.

(8003) Current Topics in Agriculture Science - 1.00 Credit

This course offers comprehensive units in contemporary ideas in animal science, food science, tissue culture, aseptic laboratory technique, soil science & apiculture. Laboratory activities are included in each of the units of instruction. Dissection units include fetal pig and reproductive systems of bovine, porcine, ovine and avian species. The course places an emphasis on career skills including interview and resume preparation. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 10th & 11th grades.

(8005) Advanced Placement Environmental Science (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit AP

Environmental Science is designed to bring the student to the equivalent of a college introductory semester course. After qualifying on the AP examination, students as college freshmen are granted three or more credits at cooperating colleges. Because of the nature of the course, taking of the AP exam is required. The assigned reading for the course is rigorous and diverse. Environmental science is an interdisciplinary study, combining ideas and information from natural sciences (biology, chemistry and geology) and social sciences (economics, politics and ethics) to present a general idea of how nature works and how things are interconnected. Topics taught include matter and energy resources, ecosystems and how they work, human population dynamics, major global problems, resources and pollution, sustaining biodiversity and ecological integrity, and environment and society. This course serves as excellent preparation for the AP Biology course and examination. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 11th and 12th grade. AP Environmental Science will count as the fourth science credit for graduation. Note: There is a fee for this exam administered by The College Board.

(8045) Biotechnology (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit

Biotechnology is the science of using living cells, their components, and their enzymes to produce useful commercial products. Students will conduct advanced laboratory protocols as they work with DNA fingerprinting and barcoding, genetic modification of bacteria and plants, plant tissue culture, and analysis of immunological proteins. Additionally, students will consider the ethical and economic consequences of these technologies as their use in agricultural and medical fields expands. This course counts for science credit. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.

(8040) Experiments in the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit

Experiments in agricultural and environmental sciences introduces students to the foundation of science: experimentation. Students will work in small groups to acquire proficiency in problem solving, statistical analysis, experimental design, literature search, in-depth reading, technical writing and oral presentation. As skills are mastered throughout the course, students will explore scientific topics of their choosing through extensive reading, development of experiments, and construction of a research presentation. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.

(8048) Seminars in Agricultural Sciences - 1.00 Credit

(8047) Seminars in Agricultural Science - .50 Credit

A student needs approval from an agricultural science teacher to take this course. It is designed to accommodate a Teaching/Laboratory Assistant (TLA). The course requirements include managing a laboratory area and conducting demonstrations in an area of agricultural science specialty. This course is designed to allow a student to be an attractive candidate for a “lab assistant” job at the university level. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. These classes are open to students in 12th grade.

(4134) Microbiology – 1.00 Credit (Prerequisite – Consent of Instructor)

Microbiology is designed for a detailed look at the invisible empire of microbes. Students will be required to read college materials and take on-line tests, conduct investigations, demonstrate mastery of technical writing and make professional contacts. This is an excellent option for a junior or senior who is considering a career in medicine or Ag. Science. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.

(4133) Independent Study in Microbiology - .50 Credits (Prerequisite – Consent of Instructor)

Offered as a Senior Seminar, Independent Study in Microbiology is an independent study designed for a detailed look at the invisible empire of microbes. Students will be required to read college materials and take on-line tests, conduct investigations, demonstrate mastery of technical writing and make professional contacts. This is an excellent option for a senior who is considering a career in medicine or Ag. Science. FFA membership is open to any student in this class. This class is available to students in 12th grade.

(8160) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 9 - 1.00 Credit

(8162) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) -Grade 10 - 1.00 Credit

(8164) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 11 - 1.00 Credit

(8166) Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) - Grade 12 - 1.00 Credit

The SAE courses are available to any student who is taking an agriculture course in grades 9-12. Each student is required to conduct a project that involves reading in scientific journals, conducting experiments of a scientific nature, raising plants or animals or involving work experiences in an area of agriculture/agribusiness. A detailed record book must be kept. A minimum of 120 hours of work outside class time is mandatory. Supervisory visits will be made by agriculture teachers who involve parents/employers in the student projects as needed. Students are encouraged to invest their own money, learn first-hand how to keep records, buy and sell and to make real life decisions that affect the project. The student's career plans and educational interests are an important part of the SAE topic selection and development. These courses will be graded A-F on a straight % basis.

Students must sign up in the Agriculture Department for this course.

FFA membership is open to any student in these classes.

High School Biomedical Sciences

The Biomedical Science curriculum is designed to expose students to laboratory research skills and scientific content relevant for a student pursuing a career in the medical or biomedical research fields. The curriculum includes both traditional courses as well as independent study courses that allow for individualized exploration into topics of interest. For more detailed information about graduation requirements and course offerings, view the High School Program of Studies.

(4150) Anatomy and Physiology I - (weighted 1.1) - 1.00 Credit

This course is designed for students who plan to enter careers that require extensive knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. Focus will be centered upon the orientation and organization of the human body, the support and movement of the human body, regulation and maintenance of the human body, and the integration and control systems of the human body. This course will include labs to physically demonstrate the mechanical properties. Students will also learn the basic injury evaluation techniques, efficient taping and wrapping for injuries, and initial injury care. Anatomy and Physiology I will count as the fourth science credit required for graduation.

This course is available for dual enrollment college credit through the Reading Area Community College. This class is open to students in 10th-12th grade.

(4151) Anatomy and Physiology II - (weighted 1.2) - 1.00 Credit (Prerequisite – Anatomy and Physiology I, taken as dual enrollment at RACC)

Building on the knowledge acquired in Anatomy and Physiology I, you will further study the structure and function of the human body. The course focuses on the studies of systems involved with integration, control, absorption, excretion and metabolism. Students will also learn advanced injury evaluation techniques, manual resistance techniques, therapeutic exercises, and therapeutic modalities.

This course is available for dual enrollment college credit through the Reading Area Community College. This class is open to students in 11th and 12th grade.

(4153) Innovative Science Research - (weighted 1.2) 1.00 Credit

This course is an introduction to the principles of scientific research with an emphasis on critical analysis of the current literature. The course provides an overview of experimental design, laboratory technology, statistical analysis, and publication preparation. The course is specifically designed to improve student presentation skills and potential for collaborative work in research. Students will learn how to design and write a research proposal and will gain a general understanding of how different techniques can be used to address a wide range of scientific research questions. This experience provides students with inquiry-based learning opportunities in a field of their choice. FFA membership is open to any student in this class.

This course is open to students in grades 9-12 and can be completed more than one time for elective credit.

Middle School Agricultural Science

Agriculture Science (5, 6, 7, & 8)

The course is designed as a classroom and laboratory experience and focuses around the Food and Fiber System. Students will be introduced to the many sides of Agriculture in Pennsylvania. Students in grades 5 and 6 will focus on the Forest Ecosystem, animal habitats, renewable resources, and the products they provide. A heavy focus for 6th grade will be placed on Agricultural law which includes a Wildlife CSI unit. In 7th and 8th grade, students will study agricultural careers, soil science, horticulture and greenhouse production, and animal science. Students will be required to work together in groups to conduct projects and other topic related activities. (1 time per year/20 consecutive days/63 minutes per day)

In the News

Social media

Students in the Agricultural and Biomedical Sciences are constantly working on projects, participating in competitions, and visiting new places. Check out our social media sites to learn about their most recent activities.

CW SRI Facebook Page

CW FFA Twitter

Tweets by cwagsci

CW SRI Twitter

Tweets by cw_sri

Media

Landscape Laboratory

Landscape Laboratory Resources

Landscape Laboratory History

The Landscape Laboratory is a series of ornamental gardens outside of the Ag. Department bordering Big Spring Road. The purpose of the Landscape Laboratory is to educate students in the Ag. Department and community about horticulture techniques, ornamental plants, botany and also to provide a place to enjoy the natural world.

The first meeting of the Landscape Taskforce occurred in October 2000, when the high school building was only two months old. The high school agricultural science teacher at the time, Mr. Stephen Miller, had the idea to plant some perennial flower beds around the department. The entire area surrounding the school was originally grass. Several interested students attended the first meeting which was held with Dr. Richard Bitner serving as a consultant.

Mr. Miller had the initial intent to beautify the agriculture department with flowers. After an initial meeting, it was determined that flower beds were not the desired direction for the project. Instead, the team would create an arboretum. Dr. Bitner advised that if designed and managed correctly, the arboretum could be an educational experience for the school and community.

Phase 1 of the Landscape Laboratory included two River Birch installations and a small ornamental garden located near the entrance to the Ag. Department. Initially, emphasis of plants was placed on quality, not quantity. More importantly, the plants were selected primarily for fall/winter/spring seasonal interest. This decision ensured that students could enjoy the gardens while school was in session. Plant labels were designed and purchased and plants were properly labeled to begin incorporating the educational component.

The Landscape Laboratory has expanded and changed drastically since 2000. Additional gardens have been constructed, adding to the educational value. Structures, pathways, and artwork have also appeared in the gardens to improve accessibility and create spaces for visitors to enjoy.

Since it's inception in 2000, the Landscape has been planned, installed, and maintained by student interns. Interns are selected during an application process each spring. Learning horticulture techniques and working throughout the entire year, interns receive a small stipend. The Landscape Laboratory Intern Program is funded by community members and local businesses. Without community support for these interns, maintenance of the Landscape Laboratory would be impossible. Those interested in donating to the intern program can contact John Siefert at j_siefert@conradweiser.org.

Landscape Laboratory Donors

The following community members and businesses have graciously donated supplies and/or funds in excessive of $300 since the inception of the gardens in 2000. The Landscape Laboratory would not exist without their support.

The Buddies Nursery
Nick Hemmerich
Richard Bitner
Green Valley Nursery
Anewalt's Landscape Design and Contracting
Conrad Weiser Hardware
Hummel Florist and Greenhouses
Rikki Melanio
Reifsnyder's Ag. Center
Zwicky Specialty Products
Berks County Master Gardeners
Outdoor Impressions Landscaping
Longwood Gardens
Jake's Greenhouses and Florist
Horticulture Dept. of Penn State Berks - Lehigh Valley College
Deep Valley Tree Farm
Farr Nursery and Landscape Company
Heidelberg Country Club
Jack and Dawn Fry
Lebanon Valley Farmers/Fulton Bank
Marilyn Daly
John F. Lengel, Inc.
Redner's Warehouse Markets
Wyomissing Garden Club
PA Heartland Herb Society
Robert Holt & Family
Dean, Roxanne, & Jackie Kintzer
Jason K. Miller
Schatz Electric, Inc.
Woman's Club of Wernersville
Reading Bakery Systems
Tony's Family Restaurant
Strunk, Inc.
Reading Alloys
David and Jane Rohrbach & Family
Susan Q. Sickler & Christine M. Sickler
Lions Club of Wernersville
Eisenhauer Nissan

Landscape Laboratory Donation Form

Landscape Laboratory Interns

Landscape Laboratory Intern Information

The Landscape Laboratory is maintained completely by student interns. The goals of the Landscape Laboratory Internship program are to effectively maintain the gardens and to educate the members of the Ag Department and community. Interns must be hardworking individuals who are not afraid to take responsibility and work with limited oversight. Some of the duties that interns are held accountable for are listed below:

Maintaining the gardens, structures, pathways, and art work
Pruning, Weeding, Mulching
Attending Landscape Intern meetings on a regular basis
Leading garden tours and participating in community outreach events
Supplemental watering only for first year plantings or during extreme drought conditions
Planning and running the Native Plant Fundraiser during the spring semester
Taking and passing at least one Longwood Gardens Certificate of Merit Course
Reading plant books each year and recommend titles for Agricultural Library collection
***One intern will be selected as “Head Intern”. This position will require additional supervisory duties and serve as a liaison between faculty and students.

Landscape Laboratory Interns 2017-2018

Head Intern:

Paige Haag (12)

Associate Interns:

Mackenzie Donatelli (10)

Brooke Turkowski (10)

Cameron Miller (11)

Native Plant Sale 2019

The 2019 Native Plant Sale will be held on Sunday April 28th from 8:00am to 2:00pm in front of the High School Agriculture Department. Profits help to fund the Intern program and maintain the Landscape Laboratory at the High School.

All plants are provided by Keystone Wildflowers, a native plant nursery in Robesonia, PA owned and operated by Bill Hoffman.

Keystone Wildflowers

2018 Plant List (Subject to Change)

Science Research Institute

“The Science Research Institute is meant to serve as a model for science education in public school systems by providing authentic learning experiences, fostering student investment, and building public/private collaboration.”

The Science Research Institute was established to serve as a framework for integrating research-based learning into the curriculum at Conrad Weiser Area School District. Over time, we hope that the initiative will serve as a model that can be implemented throughout the public schools in the United States. The SRI is meant to serve as an educational philosophy rather than a physical program. The initiative stresses the importance of providing students with skills-based and authentic learning experiences that improve students’ laboratory and research skills as well as literacy and communication.