When 8th graders decide what high school to attend, they have many options. This article explores the reasons why Ledyard High School might be the place for future 9th graders, and why out-of-town students choose to be at Ledyard High School! 

One thing that stands out about Ledyard High School to out-of-town students is the agricultural program, which offers classes in aquaculture, plant sciences, small animals, and many more. Some things that the Ledyard High School Ag program offers animal-science students is taking care of small and large animals like hamsters and sheep, and also having them compete in competitions. The Ag program also allows plant-science students to make wreaths during Christmas, floral arrangements during different seasons, and learn about pest management. Ledyard is one of 20 schools in Connecticut that offers an agricultural program, and this is what out-of-town Ledyard High School students have to say about it: 

• “The animal science agriculture program made me want to come to Ledyard. I have developed a close bond with the animal science teacher and also the animals that I work with. I also heard good things about the teachers before I came here.” – Junior Natalie Burdick 
• “I really like being in the AG program because of the greenhouses. The greenhouses really force you to be hands-on because you have something you can lose (the plants), so you have to be sure to be on top of things.” – Junior Ariana Gutierrez   
• “I chose Ledyard High for the agricultural program. It was not only a way for me to challenge myself, but also presented opportunities for me to study what I want to do for my future career, which is veterinary science.” –  Junior Luna Nunez 

Another thing that stands out to out-of-town students is the excellent community of Ledyard High School of teachers and students. This is what out-of-town students from Ledyard High School have to say about it: 

• “I knew that by going to Ledyard, I would be able to meet new people and have new experiences within a different community. I would also be able to take a big step into my career path with agriscience.” – Junior Sarah Garvey.  
• “I think that the community at Ledyard was a different pace for me, but a better one because all of my peers are always challenging me, and I always look up to them because all of them are so talented!” – Junior Ariana Gutierrez 

There is also a wide variety of classes offered to students at Ledyard High School, including Child Development, Anatomy and Physiology, 20th Century American Pop Culture, Journalism, and so many more! There’s also a wide variety of clubs and afterschool programs offered throughout the school year, including Ski Club, More Than Words, Robotics Club, Environmental Club, and more! 

If these reasons seem interesting to you, Ledyard High School might be the place for you!

Jack Stanton, Staff Writer

Junior Jack Stanton is a staff writer for the 2024-2025 Colonel Newsmagazine. He likes iced coffee and listening to Sza!