School Farm Manager

Description

Purdue Polytechnic High Schools (PPHS) is a mission-driven network of schools founded in partnership with Purdue University. Our vision is to inspire students through STEM-focused, real-world experiences, empowering them to become problem-solvers and skilled achievers who succeed in technical and STEM-related post-secondary programs and high-tech careers. At PPHS, we are committed to academic rigor and providing every student with the resources to succeed in higher education, particularly at institutions of the caliber of Purdue University. Our core values guide everything we do:

• Act as 1
• Nurture student genius
• Start from Yes
• Do the right thing
• Get it done

We aspire to create a world of equity where every student has the opportunity and access to achieve their goals and to realize their power to solve problems they encounter. We are intentional about building a culture of communication, collaboration, and innovation that creates a positive and supportive environment conducive to high academic achievement and long-term success.

Key Responsibilities:

Farm Management and Development:

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the school farm, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest management, and harvesting.
• Manage infrastructure projects such as building out wash and pack stations, installing irrigation systems, and coordinating outdoor storage development in collaboration with teaching staff and students.
• Ensure the successful build-out and operation of the farm space.
• Plan for and maintain a diverse production of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and herbs for use in the school cafeteria.

Student and Staff Collaboration:

• Coordinate with PPHS teaching staff to integrate farm-related projects and educational opportunities into the school’s curriculum.
• Facilitate engaging, hands-on gardening and farming lessons for students of varying skill levels.
• Collaborate with students to complete essential farm tasks, including seeding, weeding, harvesting, and produce washing/packing.
• Mentor students in understanding sustainable agriculture, food systems, and farm-to-school practices.

Communication and Coordination:

• Work closely with the Director of Health and Wellness to align farm goals with broader health and wellness initiatives at the school.
• Regularly communicate progress, challenges, and successes related to farm operations and student engagement.
• Foster relationships with school staff, students, and external partners to maximize the farm’s impact on the school community.

Farm-to-School Integration:

• Collaborate with cafeteria staff to deliver freshly harvested produce to the school’s kitchen and identify needs for future crops.
• Ensure produce is harvested, washed, and packed to meet food safety standards.
• Promote the visibility and impact of the school farm as a valuable resource for nutrition, education, and community building.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in small-scale vegetable farming, community gardening, or a related field.
• Previous hands-on experience managing or working on a farm, including crop cultivation, irrigation, and harvest processes.
• Strong understanding of sustainable agriculture practices, including crop planning, soil health, pest management, and irrigation.
• Proactive approach to managing weeds, pests, and overall farm health.
• Experience working with youth, including teaching, mentoring, or facilitating hands-on educational experiences.
• Ability to manage infrastructure projects and work collaboratively with staff, students, and external partners.
• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively.
• Physical ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities.
• Enthusiasm for creating meaningful connections between students, food, and farming.