By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Stryker Local Schools, known for its commitment to nurturing the minds and talents of its students, is embarking on a transformative expansion project that will have a lasting impact on the community.
With a $4.1 million dollar investment, provided through a grant from the general fund, the school district is set to unveil a state-of-the-art Agriculture and Technology Building designed to prepare students for the cutting edge industries of tomorrow.
The new facility promises to be a scene for innovation, housing a range of programs for children of all ages to take part in. Including a courtyard spanning two stories, this project includes an infill addition that will not only serve as a function space but will act as a popular hub for students.
This newly imagined area is designed with the future in mind – offering a space for both intellectual growth and personal development.
While the focus is firmly on innovation and providing academic growth to the community, the facility is also designed with the well-being of the kids in mind.
The courtyard will serve as a hub for school clubs’ activities, and wellness initiatives. It will offer a space for physical education programs that not only focus on fitness, but on mental health and well-being.
At the core of the building’s mission is the introduction of advanced technologies that will help teens reach career readiness.
For example, the Agriculture Tech program itself will offer many opportunities for students to learn about the future of farming. This includes a chance to explore sustainable farming practices, food sciences, and experiment with AG-Tech manufacturing.
The classrooms will be equipped with modern tools such as 3D printers, CNC plasma cutters and routers, welding tools, CAD/CAM software, and much more. This will give students the hands-on experience they need to prototype and fabricate real world solutions.
Included in this development is the introduction of new courses and partnership. Larry Freshour, Technology Integration Specialist and of the Panther Tech Program, gave several examples of curriculum and certifications they will be offering. This includes classes of, but not limited to;
-Robotics; where they will learn the fundamentals and be able to build robots for real-world applications.
-Advanced Manufacturing; with a focus on automation and production processes.
-Computer Aided Design (CAD); students will learn how to design 2D and 3D models, which is essential for modern day engineering and architectural fields.
-Digital Media and Animation; where students will have the opportunity to create short films and animation with professional equipment.
-Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation; concepts will teach students the many skills needed for running a business, such as market research and financial management.
The expansion extends beyond the high school students, as Stryker Local Schools has recognized the importance of early skill development.
The Panther Tech Lab, which has already been a staple of the school, will be expanding to serve students from kindergarten through sixth grade.
This initiative will introduce younger students to the world of technology and the essential skills needed in today’s job market, all while providing them with a strong foundation for success. Age appropriate classes and materials will be dispersed through the grades.
The upgraded facilities will also offer students in music, drama, and visual arts programs a supportive environment in which they can explore their talents and develop their skills.
This project is not just about building a new facility; it’s about creating an ecosystem of growth that includes support from over 100 local industry partners. The school district has received overwhelming support from the community.
Freshour mentioned that “We are actively striving to create a state-of-the-art facility throughout the design phase. Feedback has been invaluable in shaping spaces that support collaborative design.
The inspiration for this expansion stems from our commitment to equip students with the skills necessary for the future workforce.”
He notes that he is most excited for students to experience hands-on learning opportunities, made available through the Panther Tech class.
Scheduled for completion by the 2025-2026 school year, the new Agriculture and Technology Building is set to become a cornerstone of Stryker Local Schools’ mission to provide students with the best possible education.
As this ambitious project takes shape, it’s clear that the future of education in Stryker is not just bright; it’s innovative, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
The school will continue to work hard to finish this project that will help create a foundation of the next local leaders in agriculture, technology, and beyond.