Warsaw Community High School students work on the tower garden that was part of the “Farm to School” initiative through Purdue Extension – Kosciusko County. Photo provided by Emily Kresca.

News Release

WARSAW — Emily Kresca, agriculture and natural resources extension educator for Purdue Extension – Kosciusko County, recently led a “Farm to School” initiative with Mandy Bailey’s Step One junior class at Warsaw Community High School.

The six-session course let 13 students explore agriculture firsthand, offering insights into food production, plant science, nutrition and career opportunities in agriculture. Step One is an advocacy program to help students navigate high school and to explore their future plans.

A highlight of the program was the integration of a tower garden set up in the classroom, allowing students to grow fresh vegetables and directly connect with the process of food production. The hands-on learning opportunity provided the students with a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and how it is cultivated, from seed to harvest.
Throughout the program, Kresca led students in learning topics such as plant science, soils, the agricultural industry and where your food comes from. The curriculum also emphasized the importance of healthy eating and how it contributes to overall wellness. Interactive activities were incorporated, including soil experiments, game-based learning and a personality assessment to help students discover potential careers in agriculture.

“The goal of the program was to give students a comprehensive, hands-on experience that connected them with agriculture and the food system in a meaningful way,” said Kresca. “By helping students learn about the science of growing food and exploring various agricultural careers, we are encouraging them to think critically about their health, their future careers and the world around them.”

The program not only provided learning experiences but also aimed to nurture a sense of appreciation for agriculture’s role in everyday life. As part of Purdue Extension’s commitment to agricultural education, the initiative highlights the importance of cultivating awareness and understanding among youth about the agricultural industry.

The Farm to School initiative serves as an example of how educational programs can foster practical knowledge and inspire the next generation to consider careers in agriculture, according to a news release from Purdue Extension. By combining real-world applications with interactive learning, the program is making a lasting impact on students’ awareness of where their food comes from and how it shapes their lives.

For more information about Purdue Extension – Kosciusko County and the Farm to School initiative, contact Kresca at (574) 372-2340 or [email protected].

Students in the Step One junior class at Warsaw Community High School recently completed a six-session course that let them explore agriculture, food production, plant science, nutrition and more. Photo provided by Emily Kresca.