By Joshua Masenge ‘26
At Conestoga Valley High School, an innovative farm project led by Mr. Grisafi provides a unique opportunity for students to develop their character and connect with each other.
The farm project, according to Mr. Grisafi, was initially started last year to increase engagement and provide hands-on work for students with special needs, although all students are invited to do volunteer work. The farm uses new-age tech to be able to produce plants all-year round.
“When kids get an opportunity to care for something, you kind of get a different side of them,” says Mr. Grisafi. According to him, the project was less about growing plants and more about building the character of students.
The farm also sells its produce to teachers and staff in the school, building the school community in different ways. This also provides an opportunity for the students involved in the project to build skills in the business side of it all, nurturing social skills and entrepreneurship in the minds of young students.
Mr. Meier, another figure behind the operation, spoke a little on plans to team up with the business classes and clubs as well as commercialize the farm produce which is a goal that they want to reach in the near future.
CV Campus Greenery also offers internship roles to students who want to be involved at the farm.
“As far as learning, I have been so enlightened while working with Campus Greenery. From the social media accounts to the farm itself, I have learned so many new skills that will follow me for the rest of my life,” said Olivia Hernandez (12), an intern at the farm, in charge of running the social media page.
All in all, the Freight Farm project proves to be a success as it enlightens students in more ways than one and strengthens the bond within the school community.