Hershey Montessori School’s adolescent program is expanding its hands-on learning experience this summer through a student-run presence at the Chardon Family Market, where student-grown produce and community engagement will take center stage...
Summer Market Initiative
Hershey Montessori School’s adolescent program is expanding its hands-on learning experience this summer through a student-run presence at the Chardon Family Market, where student-grown produce and community engagement will take center stage.
In collaboration with farm staff, students will cultivate and sell fresh vegetables, herbs and other products at the popular seasonal market. The initiative highlights the school’s
Montessori-based approach, emphasizing real-world responsibility, entrepreneurship and community connection.
The project, in development since mid-winter, also introduces a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program for Hershey families. Through CSA shares, families can purchase access in advance and select from student-grown produce during Saturday market days and at an on-campus farm stand. Organizers say the offering provides flexible access to locally grown food while supporting student learning.
“This gives families a direct connection to what students are growing and producing,” said farm manager Joyce Cole. “It also helps students understand the full cycle of agriculture – from planting and harvesting to marketing and sales.”
Beyond sales, the program is strengthening its commitment to service. A portion of all produce grown this season is being donated to Claridon Community Helps, which provides meals for children during the summer months. Current harvests, including lettuce and herbs, are already being divided between market inventory and donations, with at least half of this week’s yield designated for the organization.
Students will also have opportunities to volunteer in the organization’s kitchen, deepening their understanding of how agricultural work contributes directly to community well-being.
“This is a powerful extension of the Montessori philosophy,” said communication director Deanna Shrum. “Students see that their work feeds people – not just for sales at a market, but for service to community families who benefit from their support.”
While students have played a key role in preparing for the market, staff say the scope of organizing a full market presence has required extensive coordination. “We’ve been working with students for months, but the full scope of what it takes to prepare for market season is complex,” Cole said. “A lot of the behind-the-scenes work is now coming together quickly.”
The initiative reflects a broader vision of experiential education, integrating academics with practical application – from crop management to customer interaction and community outreach.
“We’re building something that will evolve over time,” Cole said. “This summer is just the beginning.”
The Chardon Family Market is held in Chardon Square on June 6 and 20, July 11 and 18, and Aug. 1, 22 and 29.
