The story of career and technical education (CTE) at Pagosa Springs High School (PSHS) continues to flourish under the dedicated leadership of Garrett Fong, the accomplished agricultural science teacher and FFA advisor.
With a Bachelor of Science in agricultural education from Colorado State University (CSU) and more than a decade of involvement in the National FFA Organization, Fong brings both passion and expertise to the classroom.
Now in his second year at PSHS, Fong leads a dynamic agricultural program that offers students six major pathways within the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources cluster:
• Agricultural business.
• Animal systems.
• Plant systems.
• Food products and processing.
• Power structure and technical systems (including tractor operation).
• Natural resources and environmental management.
Students can currently enroll in Introduction to Agriculture and choose either the food science or animal science pathway. One of Fong’s goals moving forward is to expand both areas, offering deeper, more specialized learning in food processing and animal science.
He also hopes to introduce an aquaculture tank, giving students the chance to raise fish and manage a small-scale fishery — an innovative step that promotes hands-on and real-world environmental stewardship.
Despite the absence of a formal certification in agricultural education for the students, Fong ensures they all gain real-world experience. Many work in veterinary clinics and pursue certification as veterinary assistants, sparking growing interest in animal feed, reproduction and veterinary science.
Enrollment in his program has surged to 64 students — an impressive 70 percent of whom are young women — reflecting a shift in interest and inclusivity.
Fong is eager to expand offerings to include intermediate veterinary science and natural resource principles.
Another exciting initiative on the horizon is the opportunity for students to earn their tractor safety certification, which will qualify them to operate farm equipment. It’s a valuable skill and an impressive opportunity that opens the door to real agricultural experience.
Beyond the classroom, Fong is a tireless advocate for FFA. A proud member since high school, he earned the prestigious state degree from the California FFA Association and was honored with the Charles M. Shepardson Award as an exemplary graduating senior at CSU.
His commitment to FFA is transforming the school’s chapter, from just four members last year to a thriving group actively participating in competitions like cattle and horse judging.
Fong envisions FFA as more than an extracurricular — it’s a leadership incubator.
He aims to embed FFA into the curriculum, empowering students with skills that transcend agriculture and prepare them for any career path. To support this vision, he invites the community to support Build Pagosa to rally behind the program, offering financial support and mentorship to help students thrive.
As Fong steps into his role leading the agricultural education department, his mission is clear: to guide students toward meaningful careers in agriculture, food systems and natural resource management or simply to become informed, engaged citizens.
With community collaboration and student enthusiasm, the seeds of success are already being sown.
Under Fong’s guidance, PSHS is cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders.
If you’re interested in learning more or would like to donate to help us build our new regional workforce center, please visit our website at www.buildpagosa.org.
You can also contact us at officemanager@buildpagosa.org or marie@buildpagosa.org.
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