Hillyard Technical Center Agriculture program selected for National Biotech field test

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph School District's Agriculture program at Hillyard Technical Center was selected to participate in a national field test of new biotechnology curriculum.

The Agricultural Biotechnology (IAB) curriculum was developed by CASE 4 Learning and allows students to be at the forefront of agricultural and biotechnology education.

In addition, the curriculum will give students hands-on experience with laboratory techniques, microbiology, DNA analysis and gene modification and plant biotechnology applications.

Daniel Kahre, the Agricultural Education instructor at Hillyard, recently completed specialized CASE Institute training at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls to bring the opportunity.

During the four-day institute, Kahre participated in more than 32 hours of immersive professional learning, working through nearly every lesson in the year-long curriculum to prepare for implementation in SJSD classrooms.

"We are incredibly proud of Daniel and the leadership he continues to demonstrate in advancing educational opportunities for our students. His commitment to innovation and providing real-world learning experiences will have a positive impact on our students and our community," the district said in a news release.

Through CASE's inquiry-based instructional model, students will not just learn about biotechnology; they will investigate real-world challenges, conduct authentic laboratory experiences, collaborate to solve complex problems and develop critical thinking and technical skills.

SJSD said the partnership ensures that Hillyard Technical Center students have access to cutting-edge learning that bridges classroom instruction with future opportunities in agricultural biotechnology, research and other highdemand STEM careers.