At Summit Farms, we believe in connecting students to the source of their food and fostering a deep appreciation for the environment. We’re committed to partnering with local schools and educators to provide engaging, firsthand learning experiences that bring the “seed to stomach” journey to life.

Our Educational Initiatives:

  • Environmental Stewardship & Conservation:
    • We’ve established strong partnerships with agencies like the Thurston Conservation District, Partners for Fish and Wildlife, and the USDA’s NRCS to implement sustainable practices and enhance local ecosystems.
    • Students on farm tours witness firsthand our conservation efforts, including wetland development for the Oregon Spotted Frog and the use of high tunnels for sustainable food production.
    • These experiences offer valuable lessons in wildlife preservation and environmental responsibility.
  • Immersive Farm Tours:
    • We host interactive farm tours for local school districts, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of farm operations.
    • These tours feature hands-on activities, such as exploring greenhouses, examining seeds with microscopes, and harvesting vegetables.
    • Each tour is tailored to meet the specific learning objectives of the teachers, ensuring a relevant and engaging experience.
  • Farm to School Partnership:
    • Through the USDA Farm to School program, we partner with Rainier Elementary School to provide fresh, locally grown produce for student lunches.
    • We maintain close communication with the school’s Food Service Director, ensuring timely delivery of freshly harvested vegetables and fruits.
    • This program promotes healthy eating habits and supports local agriculture.
  • Educational Storytelling:
    • Our co-founder, Mitch, has created a series of children’s books, “Billy The Baaad Goat,” that promote themes of collaboration, diversity, science, and environmental awareness.
    • These books, filled with engaging stories and vibrant illustrations, are designed to inspire young learners and foster a love of reading.
    • Mitch conducts readings at local schools and also entertains visiting students on the farm.
  • Community & School Gardens:
    • We support the Peter G. Schmidt Elementary School garden with seeds and resources.
    • We are open to establishing a community garden at Summit Farms, providing a space for schools or community groups to grow their own food, with the potential to contribute to the Thurston County Food Bank.

Our Commitment:

We are passionate about providing students with enriching educational experiences that cultivate a lifelong appreciation for agriculture and the environment. We are grateful for the dedication of local educators who share our vision and inspire the next generation of conservationists and farmers.