John Schut

The donation of an historic dairy farm to Caledonia High School is the catalyst behind Schut's project. The "Med-O-Bloom School Farm" consists of a house, contemporary and historic barns, and open space. This unique donation is an excellent way to get students and the community involved in a joint fashion. Schut has developed different experiences for students at each tier of potential funding for the project. He will first create a veterinary science lab for high school students in one of the existing buildings on the farm. The lab will offer stations and pen areas to temporarily house species of animals involved in agriculture. The objective is to teach high school students about animal body systems, health care and daily management. Hopefully, student interest will be piqued to study veterinary and zoology careers in college. At increased levels of project funding, Schut plans an expansion of the veterinary science lab, the development of a comprehensive elementary and middle school visitation program, and the implementation of a small pasture-based animal flock for student care. Schut resides in Belding.