An Investigation of the Characteristics and Uses of School Farms in California FFA’s Superior Region

This study investigates the characteristics and uses of school farms within Northern California, focusing on their role in school-based agricultural education (SBAE). The research aims to determine the structural and operational attributes of these facilities and to identify their primary uses as experiential learning tools. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 74 agricultural educators. Findings reveal that school farms, averaging 21.27 acres, are predominantly managed by agriculture teachers and are primarily used for housing market animals, supporting Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. The study highlights the need for diversified school farm facilities to enhance experiential learning across all components of the SBAE model. Recommendations include targeted training for teachers, strategic facility planning through community partnerships, and innovative management approaches to optimize the educational potential of school farms.