Farm to School to Farm
Farm to School to Farm Program - F2S2F
Cultivating Future Farmers and Innovators through Hands-On Learning
The "Farm to School to Farm" (F2S2F) program is a comprehensive, 3-year course designed for technical high school students to learn the science and skills of vertical indoor farming. Students gain practical experience in growing produce without soil and constructing hydroponic and aquaponic systems on-site, at their schools. This program integrates STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into its curriculum, promoting sustainable indoor farming and enhances essential soft skills like teamwork, communication, and self-confidence. The program also supplies fresh produce for the school's culinary department, giving students pride in their work and inspiring many to pursue agriculture and related STEM careers.
Program Activities
Students engage in building and maintaining aquaponic systems, learning how to grow produce without soil. This hands-on experience is integrated directly into their school environment and curriculum.
The produce grown by students is used by the culinary department for school meals. This collaboration boosts student pride and demonstrates the farm-to-table process in real time.
F2S2F emphasizes not only technical skills, but also soft skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork. These are developed as students work together to manage their farming projects.