Community-Based Curriculum

A vital dimension of New Roots Charter School is our connection with our community.

Students engage in frequent field studies and community service projects, internships and apprenticeships, and community-based capstone projects. Our Tuesday and Thursday schedules have been designed with the block scheduling and flexibility that allows teachers ample opportunity to schedule labs and mentoring community activities in the field. A diverse group of community partners provide New Roots students with extensive internship and community service opportunities.

One core aspect of our community-based learning curriculum is our Farm to School meals program, which integrates the study of agricultural science and hands-on applications at local farms with our school meals program. This program is being designed by nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Wilkins, Director of the Farm to School program at Cornell University. Dr. Wilkins is working in partnership with EcoVillage at Ithaca's West Haven Farm and the Center for Local Foods and Farming. As part of this program, all students have the experience of applying academic studies to field experiences at West Haven Farm and other sustainable farms, and being involved in school meal preparation and planning as part of their mentoring community experience. Our Farm to School meals program will be a primary feature of the culture of New Roots Charter School, one that allows students to understand intimately the relationship between human communities and economies, ecological systems, and personal wellness.

For more information: http://farmtoschool.cce.cornell.edu/