Vocational Exploratory Program
Norfolk County Agricultural High School provides students with a two-year vocational exploratory experience designed to help them discover their interests, develop technical skills, and make informed decisions about their vocational education.
Freshman Year – Program Exploration
Freshmen explore all four vocational program areas: Animal Science, Agricultural Mechanics, Horticulture, and Environmental Science. Throughout the year, students participate in introductory coursework and hands-on learning experiences. At the conclusion of freshman year, students select their preferred vocational program, subject to available capacity.
Freshman Exploratory Grading
Freshman exploratory grades are determined using the following criteria:
50% – Freshman Exploratory Rubric: Assesses student performance in four areas: Employability, Workmanship, Safety, and Instruction & Procedures.
50% – Coursework: Includes quizzes, labs, tests, assignments, and other classroom assessments.
The Exploratory Rubric shown below is used exclusively during freshman year.
Sophomore Year – Continued Exploration and Major Declaration
During sophomore year, students explore concentrations within their selected vocational program. Students may also take certain electives outside their selected program to explore additional interests.
Sophomore students are graded according to the individual grading criteria established for each vocational course. The Freshman Exploratory Rubric does not apply to sophomore coursework.
By the end of sophomore year, students must formally declare their vocational major or concentration. To declare a major, students must have completed at least one elective within that major. Final selections are based on student preference, provided eligibility requirements are met and capacity is available.
Program Review
Norfolk Aggie is currently reviewing its exploratory and vocational placement procedures for the 2027–2028 school year. This review focuses on strengthening consistency, transparency, and equity in the student placement process. Any approved changes will be communicated to students and families prior to implementation.
