By IlLSA MATTES

For The Daily News

CARNEY – Carney-Nadeau School is rolling out a new agricultural science program this year, and the district believes the program could benefit more than just future farmers.

“Any kid entering any kind of science profession is going to benefit from this,” said Carney-Nadeau Public School Superintendent Adam Cocco.

The idea to start an agricultural science program started when it was announced Stephenson Area Public Schools would be ending their agricultural program.

“Once they did away with it, there would be no ag program in the U.P.,” said Cocco. “We’re always looking for ways to stand out, and we saw a void and we’re looking to fill it.”

The process of filling the void began last year when the school offered an online animal science program. More than a half-dozen students enrolled in the class, and feedback from those students was positive.

This year, the program has blossomed into a series of on-site courses that bring students a comprehensive, in-house agricultural science program. Patricia Wehner, the vocationally certified teacher that taught the online course last year, has now joined the district full time.

“I honestly couldn’t ask for a more confident, capable, and impassioned teacher to launch it than what we’ve found in Mrs. Wehner,” said Cocco, noting Wehner’s past experience teaching agricultural sciences in Michigan and Wisconsin.

Cocco believes the program will be beneficial for all students by offering leadership skills and professional experiences. Students enrolled in the program will have opportunities to attend competitions and conferences as they present their projects.