Growing Food, Growing Futures: School-Based Hydroponics in Bloomer, Wisconsin

Where Food Stories Begin: Learning, Growing, and Connecting at Food + Farm Exploration Center

From school field trips to family experiences, the Food + Farm Exploration Center creates meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to connect with where their food comes from and the farmers who grow it. In this episode of Beyond the Bell, we explore how hands‑on education, agricultural innovation, and community collaboration inspire curiosity, strengthen agricultural literacy, and build healthier, more connected communities across Wisconsin. https://explorefoodandfarm.org/ [https://explorefoodandfarm.org/]

Growing Food, Growing Futures: School-Based Hydroponics in Bloomer, Wisconsin

In this episode of Beyond the Bell: Food Edition, agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Racheal Haas shares how Bloomer Middle and High School’s hydroponic systems are turning classrooms into hands-on learning spaces. The program gives students real-world experience in sustainable agriculture while producing fresh food for school meals, the local pantry, and families in need—showing how education and food access can grow together.  Home | Bloomer High School [https://www.bloomer.k12.wi.us/o/bhs]

Creating Safe Spaces: Trauma-Informed Youth Programming

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, Emily James from the Boys & Girls Club of the Wausau Area explores trauma‑informed youth programming in Out‑of‑School Time settings. The conversation highlights how creating safe environments, building trust, and empowering youth through supportive relationships and routines helps foster resilience, emotional well‑being, and long‑term success.

Growing Solutions: Hydroponics and the Fight Against Food Insecurity

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, we explore how UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield, Marshfield Clinic, and Fork Farms are using hydroponic farming to transform food access. Learn how this partnership is tackling food insecurity, supporting local health initiatives, and engaging students in sustainable agriculture—all while growing fresh produce year-round.

Summer at Stout: Hands‑On Learning Through STEAM Camps

In this episode of Beyond the Bell, we explore UW–Stout’s hands‑on Middle and High School STEAM Camps, where students in grades 6–12 dive into science, technology, engineering, art/design, and math in real university labs and studios. Our guest shares how these programs spark curiosity, build confidence, and connect youth with engaging mentors and creative learning experiences—helping families and out‑of‑school‑time programs understand what makes these summer opportunities so impactful.   High School STEAM Summer Camps | University of Wisconsin - Stout [https://www.uwstout.edu/outreach-engagement/youth-camps-programs/steam-summer-camps].