An Exploration of Agricultural Education at Milton Hershey School

Christopher Bond, MHS Director of Agricultural and Environmental Education

Agricultural and Environmental Education (AEE) at Milton Hershey School is more than a program—it is a bridge. AEE connects the school to our founders’ vision of engaging students in agricultural activities while preparing them for careers in environmental and agricultural industries. By fostering a deep understanding of agriculture and the environment, we provide students with skills to thrive in any field.

Exploring Our Four Learning Centers

Our program comprises several interconnected centers, each led by subject matter experts in agricultural, horticultural, and environmental disciplines.

1. Animal Center: The Animal Center houses herds and flocks of cows, sheep, goats, and other small animals. It also oversees the Equine Center, which cares for horses and related animals.
2. Horticulture Center: This center includes greenhouses and the student-run MHS Project Market. Adjoining fields support cultivating fruit crops, honey, and seasonal vegetables for sale. Raised beds adjacent to the center further expand students’ agricultural learning experiences.
3. Environmental Center: This center is dedicated to environmental education. It stewards the school’s meadows and supports avian studies, native species care, and maple syrup production during late winter.
4. Spartan Ice Cream Center: This center, which teaches students to make and sell ice cream, is a favorite among students and staff. Many of the flavors incorporate ingredients grown by students at the Horticulture Center.

Modern Agricultural Education Practices

From early-morning animal husbandry lessons to modern research projects, AEE’s educational approach evolves with scientific and industrial advancements.

• Curriculum Integration: AEE lessons align with state and national standards and span all grade levels and subject areas. By tying language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science to agriculture and the environment, we provide real-world experiences and practical knowledge. Our AEE staff partners with MHS faculty to lead lessons and projects, from cursory introductions to weeks-long, in-depth studies.
• 21st-Century Skills: Beyond agriculture, our programs equip students with competencies essential for addressing today’s global challenges, fostering adaptability in any career. We aim to ensure all MHS students are ready to address the challenges of today and the future in any field, as agriculture and the environment are intertwined across many industries.

Career-Focused Education Integration

AEE is pivotal in the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Our contributions include:

• Expert-Led Learning: Providing resources and expertise in animal care, horticulture, environmental stewardship, and general agriculture.
• Hands-On Experience: Offering semester-long internships where students work alongside AEE staff, learning soft and technical skills critical to their future careers. The AEE program is one of the largest on-campus employers of student workers through our Authentic Work Experiences program.
• Community Engagement: Supporting Agriculture and Natural Resources theme student homes by teaching students about animal care and involving them in school-wide projects and activities.

Engaging Students Beyond the Classroom

AEE’s impact extends beyond the classroom, offering numerous opportunities for student involvement:

• Clubs and Activities: Nearly a dozen clubs across all grade levels, including horsemanship, plant care, sustainability, and soap making, allow students to explore their interests in agriculture and the environment.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Students can fulfill required volunteer hours through service projects at AEE centers.
• After-School and Summer Work: Nearly 100 students participate in after-school work opportunities and summer internships, earning while learning valuable job skills.
• Unique Educational Experiences: Through unique experiences like Project Feeder Watch, Career Mondays, and holiday-themed projects, AEE staff find ways to make learning fun and create a sense of community on campus.

Connecting with the Community

AEE bridges the gap between Milton Hershey School and the larger community through events like:

• Project Market’s Fall Frolic
• Greenhouse’s Plant Sale
• Environmental Center’s Earth Day Celebration
• Animal Center’s participation in county 4H programs and the Pennsylvania Farm Show

These events celebrate students’ achievements while fostering connections between campus, staff, students, and the public.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Deed of Trust establishing the school states students “shall be instructed in the several branches of a sound education, agriculture, horticulture, gardening, such mechanical trades and handicrafts … it may be important for them to acquire.”

Although our methods have evolved since 1909, our commitment to ensuring our students are prepared for today’s workforce remains resolute. MHS combines best practices with cutting-edge research, so our graduates are properly trained to pursue careers in agriculture, environmental sciences, or other fields. We are confident that our students leave with the skills, experiences, and memories to succeed.