The agriculture industry is absolutely essential to our city, state, nation, and the entire planet. It creates vital food and clothing for billions of people, provides nourishment for essential animals, and powers countless communities and economies. That’s why agriculture is the single largest employer in the world.  In the Texas high plains area, it’s estimated that agriculture accounts for around one-third of our entire economy.   Clearly, there’s a growing demand for individuals trained in the science and business of agriculture.

Through the Lubbock ISD Agri-STEM Program, we’re preparing students now to meet that future demand.

 The Lubbock ISD Agri-STEM complex is being created in partnership with Texas Tech University, a national leader in agriculture, food, and natural resource education. The facility will offer industry-based certification and experience in agriculture for Lubbock ISD students and help prepare them for postsecondary success.  The facility will provide prime opportunities for students—a large percentage of who are economically disadvantaged—and give them a better chance to attend college and/or move into agricultural careers that can break the cycle of poverty. This will provide far-reaching benefits for students, our community, regional businesses, and the agricultural industry as a whole.  Lubbock ISD is already positioned to give students a head start in a way that other districts are not—and it begins at an early age. Carmona Harrison Elementary is one of only two elementary schools in the U.S. with an Agri-STEM focus.