Bristol County Agricultural High School
General Information
Overview
Bristol County Agricultural High School, widely known as “Bristol Aggie,” is a public vocational-technical high school located in Dighton, Massachusetts. Founded on a tradition of agricultural excellence, the school blends rigorous academic coursework with hands-on technical training in environmental and agricultural sciences. The mission of Bristol County Agricultural High School is to prepare students for postsecondary education, careers in agriculture, and responsible citizenship through experiential learning and sustainable practices.
Students engage in a curriculum that emphasizes applied sciences, leadership, and innovation, making the institution one of the most respected agricultural schools in New England. The school’s expansive 220-acre campus provides an ideal learning environment that includes working farms, greenhouses, animal care facilities, and laboratories. Bristol Aggie’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement helps students develop an understanding of modern agricultural systems, from food production to resource management. Through a blend of academics and career-focused pathways, students graduate ready to make meaningful contributions in areas such as animal science, natural resources, and agricultural technology.
Contact Information
Address: 135 Center Street, Dighton, MA 02715
Phone Number: (508) 669-6744
Email Address: info@bcahs.com
School Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1912 |
| Motto | “Learning with Purpose, Growing with Passion” |
| Type | Public Agricultural Vocational High School |
| Affiliation | Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education |
| Principal | Dr. Donna M. Lajoie |
| Mascot | The Chieftains |
| School Colors | Green and Gold |
Bristol County Agricultural High School Rankings
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts Vocational High School Ranking | Top 10 |
| National Agricultural High School Ranking | Top 20 |
| STEM and Technical Education Ranking | Top 15% Nationally |
Bristol County Agricultural High School Academics
Bristol County Agricultural High School Faculties / Departments
- Animal Science Department
- Agricultural Mechanics and Technology
- Natural Resource Management
- Floriculture and Horticulture Department
- Landscape Design and Contracting
- Arboriculture and Forestry
- Environmental Science Department
- Agricultural Business and Marketing
- General Education (Math, English, Science, Social Studies)
Bristol County Agricultural High School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Animal Science
- Arboriculture and Forestry
- Environmental Engineering and Science
- Horticulture and Landscaping
- Agricultural Mechanics
- Agribusiness Management
- Floral Design
- Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
- Veterinary Technology
- Conservation and Wildlife Management
Online Learning
Bristol County Agricultural High School provides blended learning opportunities for students who wish to extend their studies beyond the classroom. The school integrates online platforms for coursework, research, and supplemental instruction through the Massachusetts Department of Education’s digital learning resources. Students use platforms such as Google Classroom and Edgenuity for virtual lessons, assignments, and career readiness training. Although Bristol Aggie prioritizes experiential, hands-on education, online learning ensures flexibility and accessibility, particularly for agricultural science simulations, data analysis, and collaborative projects.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Average Score |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1080 |
| ACT | 22 |
| PSAT | 1030 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Bristol County Agricultural High School maintains a strong academic track record with a student retention rate of approximately 93%. The school’s graduation rate consistently exceeds 95%, which is among the highest in Massachusetts vocational schools. Many graduates continue their education at top agricultural colleges or enter the workforce in animal care, environmental conservation, or agricultural management roles, demonstrating the school’s success in preparing students for both college and career pathways.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
As a specialized vocational high school, Bristol Aggie evaluates applicants primarily on middle school performance, attendance, and demonstrated interest in agricultural or environmental studies. While GPA expectations are typically in the range of 3.0 or higher, the school does not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Instead, emphasis is placed on academic motivation, hands-on aptitude, and alignment with the school’s mission.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Acceptance Rate
| Admission Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2023 | 30% |
| 2024 | 28% |
Bristol County Agricultural High School Application Requirements
Applicants to Bristol County Agricultural High School must complete the Massachusetts Vocational School Application, available through their local school district. Admission is based on a point system that evaluates grades, attendance, discipline records, and interview performance. Students must also submit a personal essay or statement of interest describing why they wish to attend Bristol Aggie. The selection process is competitive, as the school seeks students with a genuine passion for agriculture, sustainability, and technical learning.
Application Process
- Complete and submit the Massachusetts Vocational School Application.
- Provide academic transcripts and attendance records.
- Submit a personal statement or essay of interest.
- Participate in an admissions interview or information session.
- Await notification of acceptance from the admissions committee.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 1 |
| Application Deadline | February 1 |
| Interview Period | February–March |
| Notification of Acceptance | April 15 |
| Orientation for New Students | June 10 |
Essay Prompt
“Describe how your interests in agriculture, animals, or the environment have influenced your goals for the future, and explain why you believe Bristol Aggie is the right place to help you achieve them.”
Bristol County Agricultural High School Scholarships
Bristol Aggie students have access to a variety of scholarships through state, local, and private sources. These include the Massachusetts Vocational Technical Education Scholarships, Bristol Aggie Alumni Awards, and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) Scholarship Program. The school also assists students in applying for external funding opportunities related to agricultural science, veterinary studies, and environmental conservation.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (Public Vocational School) |
| Books and Supplies | $150 – $300 per year |
| Lab and Equipment Fees | $75 – $200 |
| Uniforms / Field Gear | $100 – $250 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
| Demographic | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Female | 54% |
| Male | 46% |
| White | 82% |
| Hispanic | 8% |
| African American | 4% |
| Asian | 3% |
| Other | 3% |
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Bristol County Agricultural High School serves a diverse range of students, including many from low-income households. Approximately 25% of students qualify for financial assistance programs. The school provides equitable educational opportunities through free or reduced-price meals, transportation assistance, and need-based scholarships. About 16% of students receive special education services, ensuring inclusive learning environments through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and classroom accommodations.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | 540 |
| International Students | 1% |
| Average Class Size | 22 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 13:1 |
University Diversity
Bristol County Agricultural High School fosters an inclusive community where students from various cultural, socioeconomic, and geographic backgrounds learn together. The school’s programs highlight global agricultural systems, environmental ethics, and social responsibility. Students participate in multicultural events and sustainability initiatives that promote empathy, teamwork, and respect. Diversity at Bristol Aggie enriches the academic environment, helping students develop broader perspectives on global agricultural challenges and community service.
Average Earnings
Graduates of Bristol County Agricultural High School enjoy strong employment outcomes. Many pursue careers in animal care, horticulture, environmental technology, and agricultural business, earning average starting salaries between $42,000 and $55,000 annually. Alumni who continue to higher education in veterinary or agricultural sciences often achieve higher earnings over time, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on career readiness and technical competency.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty at Bristol County Agricultural High School consists of highly trained educators and professionals with expertise in agriculture, environmental science, and applied technologies. Teachers maintain state certifications and participate in ongoing professional development to integrate emerging industry trends and sustainability practices into their instruction. The support staff includes academic advisors, agricultural technicians, and career counselors who work collaboratively to guide students in their educational and professional journeys.
Faculty Profiles
Bristol Aggie’s faculty members bring real-world experience from diverse fields, including veterinary science, agribusiness, forestry, and environmental management. Many have advanced degrees and professional certifications, and several collaborate with agricultural organizations and universities across Massachusetts. Faculty achievements include leading state FFA chapters, conducting environmental research, and advising students in national agricultural competitions. Their dedication to student growth and community engagement enhances the school’s reputation as a leading institution in vocational agricultural education.
Bristol County Agricultural High School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Situated on over 220 acres of farmland, woodland, and learning facilities, the Bristol County Agricultural High School campus offers a hands-on educational environment that reflects the school’s agricultural heritage. The campus includes barns, a dairy lab, greenhouses, a maple sugar house, and extensive crop fields. Although Bristol Aggie does not provide on-campus housing, students enjoy a vibrant community life filled with extracurricular activities such as the FFA chapter, equestrian team, horticulture club, and student government. The school emphasizes leadership, environmental stewardship, and teamwork as integral parts of the student experience.
Transportation
Bristol County Agricultural High School is accessible by school district transportation services and regional bus routes that connect surrounding communities. Most students commute daily from Bristol County and neighboring areas. The school supports sustainability through carpool programs and promotes eco-friendly transportation options. Ample parking is available for students who drive, and accessibility accommodations are provided to ensure all students can reach campus safely and efficiently.