News
April 24, 2025
Sustainable Farming Explored by GCS Students
Danielle Peterson
Students from Glenelg Country School recently visited Mary’s Land Farm in Ellicott City for a hands-on learning experience. The field trip brought together students from the Upper School’s Organic Arts and AP Environmental Science classes to explore sustainable farming practices.
At the farm, students learned about organic agriculture, livestock care, and the farm’s agritourism business. They spoke with local farmers and toured the facilities. This real-world experience gave students a deeper understanding of sustainable farming and food, as well as small-scale agriculture.
The field trip connected directly to classroom learning. AP Environmental Science students are designing their own agritourism farms as a class project. Organic Arts students manage the school’s community garden, applying lessons in food production and sustainability. Seeing the work done at Mary’s Land Farm helped students think creatively about their own projects.
“This visit gave our students a real sense of what sustainable farming looks like in practice,” said science teacher Annette Kelly. “It showed them how environmental science connects to everyday life.”
The trip also supported Glenelg Country School’s goal of building strong relationships with the local community. Mary’s Land Farm is just minutes from campus, making it an ideal place for students to explore science, sustainability, and entrepreneurship close to home.
The farm’s blend of education, agriculture, and business gave students a complete picture of modern farming. They saw how farmers care for animals, grow food, and welcome visitors. The farm’s staff explained how they market products and run events that invite the public to experience farm life.
Students returned to campus inspired and informed. They are now using what they learned about sustainable farming to enhance their school projects and community garden. The field trip helped bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications.
At Glenelg Country School, meaningful local partnerships are a vital part of the education. Trips like this one help students grow as thinkers, problem-solvers, and community members—right in their own backyard.
