Fort Wayne Church Launches Tech and Agriculture Programs for Local Students

Come As You Are Community Church in Fort Wayne is expanding its mission by offering new educational programs focused on technology and agriculture. In partnership with the Indiana Agriculture & Technology School, a career-focused public charter school, the church is providing unique opportunities for middle and high school students that go beyond traditional classroom subjects for tech education in Fort Wayne, as reported at wfft.com.

The Indiana Agriculture & Technology School now operates across four campuses throughout Indiana, offering specialized pathways in environmental management, food and nutrition, farming, engineering, and biology. These programs are designed to give students practical skills and experience in fields that are not typically available in mainstream school settings.

Keith Marsh, the executive director of the Indiana Agriculture & Technology School, highlighted the importance of exposing students to career options early. “It’s really important that these kids get exposed to a career so when they graduate, their opportunities are better. If they just want to go into the workforce, we want them to step into a job that’s highly skilled and will pay them well,” Marsh said.

The church’s educational initiative will initially be available to 7th and 8th-grade students during the 2024-2025 school year, with plans to expand to additional grades in the future. Classes will take place Monday through Friday at the church, which is already equipped with classrooms to accommodate students.

Anthony Payton, overseer of Come As You Are Community Church, emphasized the need for more career-based education in Fort Wayne. “I’ve always found that education is a part of what we do and a part of what we should be concerned about. All we can do now is focus on enrollment and help build that,” Payton said.

In addition to the Fort Wayne tech education programs, the church is also planning to offer hands-on agricultural learning opportunities. A greenhouse is in the works, with hopes that it will be operational within the school year, further enhancing the practical experience students will receive.

Enrollment for the program is now open, with hopes of making a lasting impact on the community and the future of local students.