Academy of Agricultural Science

Program Description
The award-winning agricultural science program at Allentown High School offers excellent opportunities for students to pursue vital and exciting career paths in the growing and important field of agriculture. The courses available through the program include plant science, animal science, veterinary and equine studies, aquaculture, greenhouse, nursery and landscape management, agricultural mechanics, bio-technology and a cooperative agricultural experience with a professional in the community.

Students in the agricultural science program also have the opportunities to participate in the nationally recognized Allentown High School chapter of Future Farmers of America (FFA). FFA is the only national youth organization to be chartered and mandated by federal legislation and is recognized by Congress as an integral part of agricultural education. The FFA program provides the real world experience associated with classroom theory and instruction. It makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for career success through opportunities for leadership, public speaking and cooperative problem-solving.

Application Process

  1. For non-resident applicants, if your student is currently registered with his/her resident district, download and complete the Notice of Intent to Participate Form. Submit this form by November 25, 2024 to your home district or charter school and obtain a signed receipt acknowledging that you submitted the form. Keep the receipt for your records. By law, a resident district must be informed if a student intends to participate in the choice program..

  2. Download and complete the AHS Choice Application or contact the Parent Information Center to have it mailed to you.

  3. Collect the following documents:

    • An official school transcript documenting at least a "B" in science.

    • Most recent NJ standardized test scores

    • A recommendation from a teacher or community member who knows you well

    • A letter of interest explaining why you want to be a part of the Agricultural Science Program. See scoring rubric for letter of interest at this link.

  4. Return the General Choice Application to the address below no later than November 25, 2024 for non-resident applicants and April 7, 2025 for resident applicants from UFRSD and Millstone.

AHS Choice Program Coordinator
Attention: Todd Pae, Principal   c/o Carri Natalicchio                                                                           

Allentown High School                                                   

27 High Street, Allentown, NJ 08501

Contact Information

Allentown High School Main Office - Email Todd Pae, Principal
(609) 259-7292 ext. 1702

Allentown High School Choice Coordinator - (609) 259-7292 ext. 1705

*All interested resident students who meet the admission requirements will be offered a place in this program.

Transportation Note to Parents: Transportation of Choice students is not guaranteed. If the cost of transportation will exceed $1,000, the parent/guardian will be given $1,000 as aid in lieu of transportation and, in some cases, the option of receiving the transportation and paying the additional amount over $1,000. By August 1, 2025, parents should receive notification of their transportation options from the resident district. For more information, read the Transportation Procedures for Choice students.