Apple Orchard Field Day

Drake Elementary Students Discover Farm Life at County Line Orchard

On October 23rd, 33 Drake Elementary students set out on an exciting Farm to School field trip to County Line Orchard in Hobart, Indiana. Joined by CPS chaperones and the Aramark team members, the day was filled with hands-on learning about agriculture and food production.

The trip kicked off with an interactive lesson on bee colonies, where students observed a live hive and learned how bees play a critical role in pollination and the food chain. Their curiosity grew as they saw bees in action, sparking newfound respect for these essential insects.

Next, they moved to the cider-making station, watching apples press into juice before sampling the fresh cider. A tractor ride to the fields followed, where, despite the end of apple season, each student selected a pumpkin to take home—a surprise souvenir that added excitement to the day.

After a picnic lunch, the students explored the kids' farm, learning about sustainable farming and engaging with local plants and animals. By day's end, they returned to school inspired, with a deeper understanding of the farm-to-table journey and the importance of agriculture in their lives.