August 19, 2024 | Education
Summer Stories: Youth Development Program, Week 8
Week 8 was a fulfilling conclusion to the summer, filled with presentations, hands-on learning at the Mississippi River Museum, baking, farm tasks, and a heartfelt celebration of the student's achievements.
The Youth Development Program is a paid opportunity for high-school-age students to develop and hone various skills in preparation for life beyond the classroom. The summer session is called the Seed Crew, and is 8 weeks of working, learning, and connecting as a team.
Week 8 began with baking and preparations for the Transamerica presentation. On Monday, the students presented and shared their experiences with staff from both Transamerica and Matthew 25. They impressed everyone with their ability to communicate effectively and showcased all the work they had accomplished over the past eight weeks.
On Tuesday, after their presentation, they took some time for fun and learning by visiting the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. This trip was a favorite among the students, as it offered them a chance to see how farming impacts the Mississippi River watershed. They also enjoyed the opportunity to pet stingrays, which might have been the real highlight of the trip for them.
Wednesday was spent making banana coffee cake with excess bananas from the Corner Store and pesto with fresh basil and garlic from the farm. Both items were later sold at the Corner Store. The students also continued with important farming tasks and took the time to deep clean the trusty gold van.
Thursday was rainy, but they still managed to get a lot done on the farm. The students filled out surveys reflecting on their knowledge and growth over the season and made “wish jars.” Each student left a message for one another and placed them in the jars. The day ended with a pizza lunch together under the pavilion, where they read through the wish jars and celebrated the season.
It was a challenging but fulfilling season on the farm. We can’t wait to see what’s in store next year, and look forward to continuing through the Fall and Spring with our new and returning Root Crew Members.
It is a wrap on 2024 Summer Stories!