Description
Responsibilities
1. Plant Care & Environmental Monitoring
Competencies: Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Quality Control
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Monitor the health of plants and seedlings daily. Identify and respond to issues such as pests, watering needs, nutrient deficiencies, or environmental stress.
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Use basic tools and data (thermometers, moisture meters, etc.) to track growing conditions and make informed adjustments.
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Propose solutions to recurring issues and evaluate results with the mentor’s feedback.
2. Greenhouse Maintenance & Operations
Competencies: Professionalism/Work Ethic, Quality Control
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Maintain a clean, safe, and organized greenhouse environment by regularly sanitizing tools, benches, and growing areas.
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Conduct daily and weekly custodial tasks without direct instruction, demonstrating independence and reliability.
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Assist in monitoring supply levels and restocking or reporting shortages as needed.
3. Seed-to-Harvest Independent Project
Competencies: Leadership, Critical Thinking/Problem Solving
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Select a crop or plant to manage from seed to sale or harvest. Document your process, decisions, and results in a portfolio or reflection journal.
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Troubleshoot challenges that arise in germination, transplanting, or growth, using your coursework and mentor input to guide problem-solving.
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Present your project to the agriculture teacher, classmates, or greenhouse staff.
4. Collaboration & Seasonal Team Projects
Competencies: Teamwork/Collaboration, Leadership
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Participate in group efforts such as planting seasonal crops, preparing raised beds, organizing community plant sales, or composting initiatives.
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Demonstrate respect and teamwork in group settings while also stepping into leadership roles as appropriate (e.g., mentoring peers, leading a task).
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Work with students, FFA members, and staff to ensure projects meet shared goals and timelines.
5. Community Engagement & Event Support
Competencies: Leadership, Professionalism/Work Ethic
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Assist in preparing for community-facing events like greenhouse tours, plant sales, or school presentations.
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Represent the program professionally and answer basic questions from visitors, showing leadership and communication skills.
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Take pride in showcasing the greenhouse as an educational asset to the community.
6. Quality Control & Inventory Oversight
Competencies: Quality Control, Professionalism/Work Ethic
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Help maintain inventory of seeds, soil, tools, and materials.
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Ensure that plants being prepared for sale or distribution meet visual, health, and labeling standards.
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Report concerns promptly and help implement corrective actions.
7. Weekly Reflection & Growth
Competencies: Professionalism/Work Ethic, Leadership
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Participate in a short weekly check-in with the greenhouse advisor to reflect on performance, challenges, and goals.
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Keep a simple log of completed tasks, learning experiences, and observations.
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Identify one area of personal growth and one area of greenhouse improvement to focus on each week.
Notes for Compliance
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Intern responsibilities are educational in nature and distinct from standard employee tasks.
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Administrative or clerical work (e.g., labeling, inventory logging) will not exceed 25% of total responsibilities.
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This internship provides structured opportunities for hands-on learning, leadership development, and skill-building in the context of school-based agriculture.
Qualifications
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Intern must be reliable, able to arrive on time, follow through with tasks, and take initiative.
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Ability to self-identify issues within the greenhouse (e.g., plant health, sanitation, supply shortages) and respond proactively without constant supervision.
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A background or interest in Plant and Soil Science coursework or active membership in the WCHS Agriculture Program or FFA is highly preferred.
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Willingness to learn, ask questions, and work both independently and collaboratively.
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A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to safety and quality are essential.
Contact Information
Phone Number:
7655841401