Sustainability Scoop: The Tiny Farm

Did you know Kent Denver’s Tiny Farm grew 700 pounds of organic vegetables last year—feeding students, campers, employees and neighbors? These farming efforts are just one part of the Tiny Farm’s broader mission—to create an outdoor educational space that offers hands-on experiences in sustainability, land stewardship, gardening, animal care and community service. 

This 1.2-acre working farm, located west of the baseball fields, launched in 2021 after transforming an underused area of campus. Today, it features two organic gardens, five sensory gardens, two small orchards, a berry berm and multiple animal habitats. On-site practices like composting, powering alternative energy displays and sustainable water use help to perpetuate Kent Denver’s sustainability mission. 

The Tiny Farm also serves as a dynamic learning environment for our students and greater community. Throughout the school year, classes and clubs explore topics such as healthy land use, climate change, ecosystems and plant and soil care. This spring, Middle School students are starting seeds for planting, and Upper School students in the Principles of Sustainable Development elective are using the farm to study ecological land use and sustainable building practices. 

Beyond the classroom, the farm fosters community connection. Students, families, alumni, neighbors and staff participate in events like apple pressing and Halloween celebrations, while summer camps, service opportunities and parent volunteer programs further strengthen engagement. 

Contact the Tiny Farm leads Lee Lee Newcomb and Michelle Kingston with any questions related to the Farm. And don’t miss the next monthly Sustainability Scoop in future issues of Connection!