Elkhart Community Schools: Building a Sustainable Agriculture Program Together

The agriculture education efforts at Elkhart Community Schools and the Elkhart Area Career Center are spearheaded by an impressive team of dedicated teachers and administrators. At the heart of their program are the agriculture and veterinary science instructors, who bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to their work. Complementing this core teaching staff is the CTE program director, who helps to strategically guide the direction and development of the agriculture curriculum. Together, this skilled team has created a multifaceted learning experience for their students, grounded in hands-on, real-world applications.

The centerpiece of their program is an expansive school garden, which features both a pollinator plot and a vegetable production area. Here, students get their hands dirty cultivating a variety of crops, while also learning about the vital role of pollinators in a healthy ecosystem. Beyond the garden, the program also incorporates livestock, providing students invaluable experience in animal husbandry. An egg hatching program, in partnership with the local elementary schools, further enhances the agricultural learning opportunities. And each year, the school hosts "Ag. Days" in collaboration with the county 4-H, giving students a chance to showcase their skills and projects. Rounding out the impressive facilities is a state-of-the-art greenhouse, where students can delve into the science of plant propagation and growth.

The produce harvested from the garden is put to good use, with some going to the school's family and consumer science (FACS) program for culinary applications, and the rest being donated to the local food bank. This commitment to community engagement is a hallmark of the agriculture education efforts, as the team works tirelessly to get students of all grade levels involved in the garden and the various agriculture and veterinary science pathways offered. The result is a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that is preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders and stewards of the land.