rooted at folks
high school internship program
Meeting on the first and third Fridays from May through early September, students will learn about the natural world and sustainable agriculture through educational instruction and hands-on farm practices including planting, harvesting, building, and caring for crops and the planet. Students will receive guided instruction and mentorship from leaders, experienced farmers, and guest experts. Along the way, we hope to engage students creating meaningful relationships and equipping them with practical life skills, gain lasting friendships, and contribute to a working farm and the local economy in a way that is both impactful and deeply formative.
Rooted at Folks Farm is a mentorship-driven, educational high school internship program that invites students to step out of today's digital world and into a more meaningful connection with land, nature, food, and one another.
Timing
The Rooted Internship Program runs from May through early September and meets on the first and third Friday of each month. All sessions take place from 3:30–5:30 PM.
Monthly Potlucks
The first Friday of each month will include a casual potluck-style gathering. Students are invited to bring a dish to share as we come together to eat, connect, and spend time as a community at the farm after our farming.
2026 Internship Dates:
May 1 (team meal)
May 15
June 5 (team meal)
June 19
Student Benefits
Community service hours for public good work done within internship program
Letters of recommendation and resume blurbs for future positions
Education on the topics of agriculture, sustainability, and ecology
Access to monthly pot-luck style high school meals
Taking on an active and impactful role in the local economy and community
Connection to an awesome community of like minded students and peers and mentors
Free produce stipends certain weeks depending on abundance
Potential future employment consideration
July 3 (team meal)
July 17
August 7 (team meal)
August 21
September 4 (team meal)
The earth is what we all have in common
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The work of the world is done by people with their hands
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Good farmers grow food. Great farmers grow farmers
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For the last 50 years, the dominant major in our high schools and universities has been "upward uobility". Today, it needs to be "homecoming".
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The earth is what we all have in common • The work of the world is done by people with their hands • Good farmers grow food. Great farmers grow farmers • For the last 50 years, the dominant major in our high schools and universities has been "upward uobility". Today, it needs to be "homecoming". •
Rooted is designed for high school students who are curious, willing to work hard, and interested in learning outside of a traditional classroom.
No prior farming experience is required—just a positive attitude, openness to learning, and a willingness to get your hands dirty.
who will thrive here:what you will experience:Interns take part in daily hands-on farm work while learning the real “why” behind why we do what we do on this land each day. Each session includes activities such as:
Planting, harvesting, and crop care
Weeding, irrigation, and maintaining garden beds
Assisting with simple builds and farm projects
Learning to safely use basic tools
Helping prepare produce for market
Group discussions and guided learning
Teaching topics rotate throughout the season and include soil health, composting, seasonal planning, sustainable farming practices, and food systems.
Along the way, our hope is that interns will build real skills, gain meaningful mentorship, and grow deeper in their understanding of land, food, and community.
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The program is intentionally small, with a maximum of 12 consistent interns to keep it hands-on and mentorship-focused. There will be flexibility for non-enrolled friends to join along as well!
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Yes, consistent attendance is expected so students can fully participate and contribute to the farm community. If you are still interested but can not attend all of the sessions, still sign up! We are happy to have you, but may not be able to provide all of the program benefits.
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No experience is necessary. Students are taught everything they need to know and are supported through hands-on learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions *
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This is a hands-on, outdoor learning environment. Students should expect to be active, work with their hands, and spend time outside in various weather conditions. Students will be working on a real farm and may use basic tools and participate in physical outdoor work. Safety is a top priority, and all activities are supervised with clear instruction and proper guidance.
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The program is led by the Folks Farm team, with support from experienced farmers and guest educators throughout the season. Students will be guided through both hands-on farm work and structured learning sessions in a supportive, mentorship-based environment.
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Students gain real-world experience in sustainable agriculture along with mentorship and hands-on learning.
Additional benefits include:
Community service hours
Monthly community meals on the farm
Free produce (select weeks)
Letters of recommendation upon request and a strong resume write up
Potential future employment opportunities
High school credit opportunities (pending approval with local schools)
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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. This is a small, mentorship-based program with a maximum of 12 interns each season, allowing us to offer a focused and hands-on experience for every student.