Explore the Impact of Purdue Polytechnic High School's Farm to School Initiatives

Purdue Polytechnic High School (PPHS) has kicked off an exciting Food Fellowship program for its students! This paid workforce development initiative focuses on urban agriculture and food justice, offering students hands-on training while earning college credit through Ivy Tech. Currently, four students from all three Indianapolis campuses are gaining valuable experience at the PPHS Englewood urban farm, which was made possible by an Indiana Farm to School grant. As we gear up for our first growing season in Summer 2025, the Food Fellows will collaborate with the PPHS Culinary Services team to identify crops for the school nutrition program, all while learning about safe food handling and establishing procedures between the farm and the school. Throughout the grant period, PPHS organized four community service days to prepare for this growing season, positively impacting around 100 students through farm-to-school activities. Thanks to this funding, PPHS has laid a strong foundation for a thriving urban farm in the Englewood neighborhood. They have hired a farm manager, launched their first Food Fellowship cohort, engaged students from all campuses, and garnered additional support for the farm. What was once an overgrown lot is now transforming into a vibrant community greenspace, providing hands-on learning opportunities while addressing food insecurity in the area. This initial funding has not only sparked the growth of local produce but has also fostered a sense of community!