Grayslake Community High School District 127's innovative Pathway to Agriculture program was recently featured in The Daily Herald. The article, titled "Sowing the Seeds: Farmer Leads Pathway to Agriculture Course at Grayslake District 127," shines a spotlight on Jeff Miller, the district’s first agriculture teacher, and his efforts to develop a comprehensive agriculture pathway for students interested in this growing field.
Miller and his wife, Jen, operated Prairie Wind Family Farm for 17 years before partnering with Liberty Prairie, a private not-for-profit foundation involved with farm enterprises and conservation efforts. As a seasoned organic farmer, Miller now shares his expertise with students as part of the district’s Career & Technical Education (CTE) program. In his class, Engineering a Sustainable Future, students from District 127 gain hands-on experience at the Prairie Crossing Farm in Grayslake. From planting bok choy seeds to understanding the science behind soil, air, sunlight, and nutrients, students are exposed to the broader systems that make agriculture possible. Miller explains that many of his students, who may start out with little experience beyond gardening with family, are quickly immersed in the real-world challenges and rewards of farming.
Grayslake North sophomore Enzo Carrion is just one example of a student whose perspective on farming has shifted. Encouraged by his parents to get outside and explore, Enzo researched farming and learned that while it’s "crazy, hard work," the connection to nature offers a peaceful and fulfilling experience.
The agriculture pathway aligns with District 127’s mission of providing real, authentic, and engaging learning opportunities, represented by the #D127GetsREAL tagline. Launched as a districtwide effort to create career pathways, the agricultural program officially became a career pathway two years ago and has since expanded with dual credit options through the College of Lake County, offering students both high school and college credit.
Miller's role extends beyond the classroom. He serves as the district’s liaison, helping coordinate hands-on farm projects that integrate with other subjects, such as construction, culinary arts, and entrepreneurship. His partnership with the Liberty Prairie Foundation has enriched students' experiences, allowing them to see firsthand how agriculture impacts a variety of career fields.
District 127's agriculture program is just one example of how the district is building future-driven career pathways that connect students to real-world opportunities. To learn more about the program and read the full Daily Herald article, click here.