Schools connect farming, students with unique garden programs

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Grown, a program that promotes locally grown and made products, is celebrating accomplishments from several Hoosier schools in 2024.

Here are some highlights from the organization’s latest newsletter.

Warren Township Schools work with local farmer

Warren Township Schools have secured local produce for next growing season from Waterman’s Farm in Indianapolis.

With visits to the farm, students at Lowell Elementary school will learn about the growth of tomatoes from seed to table.

Waterman’s will supply the elementary school with grape tomatoes for the entirety of the 2025 growing season.

Richland-Bean Blossom schools connect classroom, cafeteria

The collaboration between educators and school nutrition staff at Richland-Bean Blossom Schools is paying off big — with students learning about agriculture and nutrition through farm to school programs.

Students grow and harvest salad greens and herbs through hydroponic growing units. The harvested products are used in school lunches.

Elkhart Community Schools build sustainable ag program

Elkhart Community Schools have an expansive school garden, which features a greenhouse and pollinator plot for students. Students also learn about livestock and enjoy an egg hatching program.

The produce harvested from the garden is put to good use, with some going to the school’s family and consumer science program for culinary applications and the rest being donated to the local food bank.

Portage Township Schools feature hydroponic farming

Portage Township Schools recently acquired three hydroponic units to teach children about soil-free farming.

This approach supports rapid growth and allows for the cultivation of a wider variety of fresh produce on school grounds.

Pike Central students enjoy culinary journey

Pike Central Schools’ culinary program provides students with a unique learning experience that teaches them the importance of farm-to-table cooking and sustainability.

By partnering with the school’s agriculture department, the culinary class can plant, grow and harvest a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and herbs at the school.

The students learn when and how to harvest each item at peak ripeness and flavor. They also discover creative ways to use every part of the plant. Students try new foods and recipes throughout they year.

Learn more about Indiana Grown at indianagrown.org.