Tate High School Opens New Agriscience Building

August 25, 2024

A grand opening ceremony was held on Saturday for the new agriscience building at Tate High School, a facility made possible by half-cent sales tax funds.

“It may be the ribbon cutting today, they’ve already been enjoying that building for 10 days. and it will be many more days to come, Escambia County Public Schools Superintendent Keith Leonard said, calling the building a testament to the commitment the community has made to the future of future of agricultural education.

Established in 1917, the J.M. Tate Agricultural School has a rich history of fostering excellence in agricultural education. “Our program has thrived over the years,” said Principal Laura Touchstone, highlighting the school’s numerous state and national accolades.

For a photo gallery, click here.

The agriscience building is packed with technology, from large screen displays and sound systems to precision laser equipment to hydroponics. It features a wood and welding shop, a veterinary classroom and other educational space.

Currently, approximately 1,088 Tate students are enrolled in the agriscience program, which is led by six dedicated teachers, four of whom are Tate alumni. “Our FFA chapter is recognized as a national three-star national gold chapter, placing us among the top 1% of chapters nationwide,” Touchstone said, noting that Tate’s FFA chapter is one of the largest in Florida.

“We are recognized as a national three-star national gold chapter, placing them among the top 1% of chapters nationwide for our work in growing leaders, building communities, and strengthening agriculture here in Florida.,” she said.

“Agriculture is more than just a cornerstone of our school it remains the very identity of J.M. Tate High School, Touchstone emphasized. “As we celebrate this new building, we remember that it’s not just a facility, it’s a place for our students will learn grow and carry on the traditions that have defined Tate for more than a century.”

NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

3 Responses to “Tate High School Opens New Agriscience Building”

  1. dave lamb on August 25th, 2024 11:29 pm

    Is there a building @Tate that still dates back to 1966. I am glad to see that the new building will have Vo-Ag and FFA. I hope it will carry some other trades too. Like Bonnie Exner I hope there is some farm ground like we had in the past. A name could be Parish science building after a beloved science teacher from the past.

  2. Bonnie Exner on August 25th, 2024 3:17 pm

    I will vote for renewal of the half -cent sales tax when it rolls around again as long as the powers that be continue to monitor and build needed facilities such as this. I only hope that we can continue to have enough farmlands for these students to work.

  3. Joe Noplis on August 25th, 2024 7:41 am

    The building is beautiful and technology is awesome. As a Tate graduate and former FFA member the education I received from FFA has helped me in many ways in my life. I congratulate the Escambia County school District for having the vision to improve this area of Tate high school for generations to come. Enjoy your new home Aggies!