Spring 2012 – Teacher Development
CSS conducted a professional development course for teachers from Central Vermont high schools including: MHS, U32, Twinfield, and Northfield. Graduate credit was available through Saint Michael’s College. Experiential, service learning-based curriculum was developed by teachers in their respective disciplines with sustainable food systems as the integrative theme.
Summer 2012 – Pilot Summer Program
A program was piloted where students from Central Vermont high schools tends to school gardens and CSS plots at Two Rivers. Participants were paid stipends for work associated with farming.
Fall Semester 2012 – CSS Kick Off
Teachers that participated in the previous Spring course brought their classes to the Two Rivers Center farm to administer appropriate aspects of the food systems-based lessons and units developed during the course. During this kick-off phase of the CSS, we expect at least 10 teachers and 350 students to come though the Center.
Winter 2013 – Taking Stock
Through teacher gatherings and a board retreat, CSS staff took advantage of this quiet farm time to evaluate the previous Fall programs and make modifications as needed. New teacher recruitment is focused on filling gaps and acquiring motivated and inspired educators.
Spring 2013 – Teacher Development and Continued Classes
Once again CSS is offering a teacher development course for new teachers interested in the Center. Teachers already involved in the program will continue to bring their students to the Center as it prepares for the upcoming growing season. A minimum of 350-400 students will come through the Center.
Summer 2013 – Fully Operational Summer School
Full Summer programming will begin in 2013 with the capacity for up to 20 students and will fill a huge need in the community for local summer school. Students will care for the crops destined for the Fall program. Academic credit and stipends will be awarded as appropriate.