LEARNING AT THE FARM
Students are given the time and space to study ecology, earth science, and other agricultural sciences in a hands-on setting. This experience nurtures their understanding of environmental stewardship and fosters independence, agency, and confidence. By taking on farm responsibilities, students learn accountability and the importance of their contributions, developing a deep appreciation for community, sustainability, and nature. Ultimately, students leave MCS with a strong sense of environmental responsibility and a profound connection to the natural world.
WE AREN’T AFRAID TO GET OUR HANDS DIRTY
Students tend the gardens, care for animals (chickens, cows, pigs, and sheep), learn to weave, explore fields, mountains, and streams, and study both traditional and contemporary life in the Catskills. They experience zero-mile meals and a closed-loop food cycle daily. As they progress through elementary and middle school, their work on the Farm becomes more challenging, integrating with and enhancing their classroom curriculum.
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS
Farm trips emphasize our dependence on natural processes and the importance of community members relying on each other. By working together to make the Farm mostly self-sufficient, students learn to use farm products for food, fuel, and clothing. They explore the economies of nature, both in the wild and on the Farm, and study best practices for environmental conservation. Through shared activities, daily classes, and household and barn chores, students learn to function as mutually reliant community members.
we welcome partner schools
MCS has a long history of opening our farm to other school communities. School groups are welcome to spend a week experiencing a working farm and all this has to offer. We can accommodate classes of up to 24 students. Interested schools should reach out to inquire about availability.
Imagination on Fire at MCS Farm
Writer, Poet, and MCS Alum Kai Naima-Willams recounts her experiences at the MCS farm through a captivating poem she wrote in eighth grade. Her words paint a picture of a world transformed by nature into a vivid classroom.
Knowledge and fun
"We join together at meals and I get to hear what they've done in classes," said Julianna, MCS teacher. "They show me their textile projects. They tell me what they discovered on their nature hike. And just sharing in those moments in a different space, without the time constraints of our city schedule, is really magical."