Penn Farm

Colonial School District
Penn Farm CSAWPHS FFA

The study of Agriculture at William Penn High School focuses on three fundamental areas: plant science, animal science, and, environmental science.

Plant Science applies the principles of agriculture, biology, and chemistry of plant life.

Connecting to our Environmental Science program, students combine economics, policy, and ecology to study ecosystems and natural resources.

Our Animal Science program emphasizes animal nutrition, care, and how animals interact with our food systems.

This unique program is further set apart through a partnership with the Trustees of the New Castle Common, students will practice this knowledge on a living farm, Historic Penn Farm, which, is adjacent to school property. The District leases land from the Trustees for its community-supported, student-focused operation, Penn Farm.

Agriculture students work directly with other students in other STEM programs and also work closely with our Culinary Program students and Nutrition Services in our “farm to school to table” program. Each student, upon graduation and completion of the pathway in Agriculture, will receive a related industry-recognized certification(s).

Total Pounds Harvested

Total Harvested Since 2016

Harvested in 2022

2023 Total Harvest

Farmers Market Info

Penn Farm this year will not be at any public markets but will have produce available to the public on Tuesdays, 12 pm – 5 pm at Wheelys Farmstand (farmstand located at Penn Farm).

Community Supported Agriculture

We will have our Summer CSA Program again this year. Pick up will again be on Tuesdays, 12 pm – 5 pm at Wheelys Farmstand (farmstand located at Penn Farm).

Farm to School

At Penn Farm, students will practice the knowledge learned in the classroom on a living farm, adjacent to school property. Students learn each aspect of farming in real time from seeds to harvest. Agriculture students work directly with culinary students and Nutrition Services in our “Farm to School” program. Vegetables grown on the farm are utilized by the District’s Nutrition Service. In addition to Penn Farm, students at most of the District’s Elementary Schools and Middle Schools have the opportunity to grow fresh vegetables in their school gardens. Produce grown by students is harvested and incorporated into the school meal program! This is made possible through a partnership with Healthy Foods for Healthy Kids, a non-profit organization specializing in school gardens in Delaware.

Colonial School District Summer Food Program

The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides healthy meals and snacks to children when school is not in session. The SFSP is a federally funded program operated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and is managed locally by the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE). The goal of the SFSP is to ensure that children receive the nutrition they need to continue to grow, learn, and play throughout the summer months! More info can be found HERE.

A Special Thanks to those who have donated this year or in the past!