FCHS celebrates opening of new SAE Barn

As WNEG News reported earlier this week, The Stephens County School System has announced the schedule for the groundbreaking ceremony for the school’s new Stephens County Ag Center 

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 28. 

In a similar project, Franklin County High School celebrated another milestone Tuesday with the dedication and open house of their new SAE barn. 

SAE, which is a Supervised Agricultural Experience, is a common term in the FFA organization, and refers to a structured experiential and work-based learning opportunity in school-based agriculture, food, and natural resources program to extend beyond the classroom that takes place in a setting outside of regular school hours. According to the Georgia Department of Education, the SAE program allows students to learn and work in real-life situations where they obtain on-the-job skills.

Dozens of residents gathered Tuesday evening for the opening in Franklin County.

Special guest speaker State School Superintendent Dr. Richard Woods thanked all involved in making the new SAE Barn a reality.

Dr. Woods noted that the new barn will help high school students looking for a career in agriculture continue to grow towards that goal for years to come.

Woods also praised the FFA chapter in Franklin County for their outstanding work and achievements and said the new barn facility is an asset for them as well.

The new SAE barn actually consists of two barns, a small barn to house small farm animals, and a large barn for larger livestock.

It will also have an outside practice ring and an entry room with lockers and bathrooms for students as well as a storage area.

Located on property across from the high school, the new SAE barn is being paid for with SPLOST funds and will give students interested in farming hands-on experience in raising and showing large and small livestock.