Today, our FMS students who are participating in the summer 4-H garden group at the Boys & Girls Club had a wonderful opportunity to visit the Stark Family Farm on the Bloomfield Highway. This isn’t just any farm; it’s a local gem growing a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and it’s proudly owned and run by graduates of FMS!
Spanning six acres, the farm produces everything from cucumbers and okra to pears, eggplants, and even a full acre dedicated to strawberries. And the best part? Much of this produce will make its way directly to our school kitchens and cafeterias, bringing local, healthy food straight to our students’ plates.
The visit was extra special thanks to Carson Stark, a 2024 graduate of Farmington High School, who took time from his busy day to speak with our 4-H class. He shared what it’s like to run a farm and explained the importance of growing food locally—a lesson that truly resonated with our students.
Even with recent water challenges on the farm, the farm’s team welcomed our students with open arms. The kids even helped trellis cucumber plants, learning firsthand how supporting plant growth can improve space, air flow, and plant health.
We’re so grateful to Carson’s Farm and the Boys and Girls Club for making this meaningful experience possible. It was a day full of learning, curiosity, and connection—exactly the kind of hands-on education we love to see.