Jourdanton High School Students Get Real-World Training in Meat Processing
Jourdanton High School is offering students a unique, hands-on experience in the world of food science through its Food Processing class.
Meeting daily in a state-of-the-art meat lab, students dive into the nitty-gritty of the food industry, learning skills from handling and processing to the business aspects of food production.
Led by agriculture teacher Page Jenschke, the course serves as a foundation for students interested in the food industry, offering both educational and practical insights into meat processing.
A Unique, Hands-On Learning Environment
In the Jourdanton High School Meats Processing Lab, students get firsthand experience processing red meat, poultry, and even wild game.
Each fall, the class receives a special donation of White-Tailed Deer from a local ranch with Managed Lands Deer (MLD) permits.
This donation allows students to practice skills like skinning, quartering, and making products such as jerky, snack sticks, and sausages.
Through these activities, students gain valuable insights into every stage of the process, preparing them for real-world applications.
Building Skills and Careers in Food Science
Under Jenschke’s guidance, students follow the Food Science Pathway, beginning with Food Technology and Safety classes for underclassmen, and progressing to the Food Processing course for juniors and seniors.
“I enjoy teaching these classes because they provide hands-on experiences that students can utilize in the real world,” Jenschke shares, underscoring the practical, career-focused nature of the program.
Recognizing the growing demand for food science professionals as the population increases, Jourdanton ISD has positioned itself to be at the forefront of preparing students for these careers.
Certifications and FFA Opportunities
Beyond classroom learning, the program also offers certifications and involvement in FFA (Future Farmers of America) activities.
Students have the opportunity to earn an AMSA Food Safety & Science Certification and work towards the AMSA Culinary Meat Selection and Cookery Industry-Based Certification.
These certifications equip students with skills directly applicable to food industry careers, setting them apart in a competitive job market. Additionally, FFA students can work on relevant projects for FFA meat contests, further enhancing their skills and confidence.
Through the meat lab, Jourdanton High School provides students with a comprehensive education in food processing, preparing them for a future in the food industry and giving them a leg up in real-world skills.
For insights into hands-on meat processing education and career pathways in food science, visit our homepage.
