Mark Walter Cultivates Curiosity Through Innovative Farm Curriculum, Earns Statewide Recognition

Bullis School proudly celebrates 5th Grade Teacher Mark Walter, whose innovative, farm-based curriculum is transforming the Lower School learning experience—and earning statewide recognition in the process. Walter has been named the recipient of the 2026 Velma Clark Excellence in Teaching about Agriculture Award from the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation (MAEF), in recognition of his exceptional work in bringing agricultural education to life.

At the heart of Mr. Walter’s approach is Farm School, a holistic, environmental education program held at his own Plow and Stars Farm. This immersive experience nurtures the whole child, guiding students through a joyful journey of self-exploration while deepening their awareness of community, empathy, and stewardship of the land. Through regular visits to the farm, students engage directly with nature, animals, and sustainable practices—building meaningful, lasting connections.

Farm School has deep roots at Bullis. For many years, elements of the program existed through field trips and experiential education opportunities. Building on that foundation, the program was further developed through Bullis School’s Summer Grants Program. What began as a series of meaningful experiences has since evolved into a fully integrated, interdisciplinary program that continues to grow and expand.

The Summer Grants Program was created to give teachers dedicated time to develop bold, creative curricular work over the summer. Bullis educators consistently lead the way with innovative teaching practices and collaborative, cross-department and cross-division programming, though finding time during the school year for this kind of work can be challenging. The program enables faculty members to apply for support to engage in course design during the summer, provided that the work is completed as part of a team. Through this structure, Farm School was able to take shape and evolve into the dynamic program it is today.

Mr. Walter’s interdisciplinary model—developed through collaborative planning with his colleagues—seamlessly integrates core academic subjects with experiential learning in this unique outdoor classroom. With support from the Visual Art teacher, Music teacher, Science/STEM teacher, and Lower School Counselor, Farm School reflects a truly cross-curricular effort. In Art on the Farm, students draw inspiration from the natural world, creating works that reflect the textures, colors, and rhythms of their surroundings. Music on the Farm brings learning to life through sound, encouraging students to explore rhythm and expression in an outdoor setting.

Scientific inquiry thrives in Science on the Farm, where students observe ecosystems, study plant and animal life cycles, and engage in environmental problem-solving. Social Studies on the Farm connects students to broader themes of agriculture, culture, and sustainability, helping them understand the role farming plays in communities around the world.

Literacy development is enriched through Literacy on the Farm, where students read, write, and reflect on their experiences, strengthening both communication skills and personal voice. Equally important is Social Emotional Wellness on the Farm, which emphasizes mindfulness, empathy, and calming techniques. In this setting, students learn to slow down, care for animals, and cultivate a sense of responsibility and compassion.

The Velma Clark Award for Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture was established by the Clark family to honor the legacy of Velma Clark—a nurse-turned-farmer whose passion for agriculture and education left a lasting impact. While raising her family, she managed farm responsibilities such as milking cows and raising hens, even delivering eggs to families in Baltimore City. A strong advocate for youth agricultural education, she supported 4-H programs and remained active in dairy industry organizations. Today, the award recognizes Maryland K–8 teachers who do an outstanding job integrating agriculture into their core curriculum, celebrating the essential role agriculture plays in our daily lives.

Mr. Walter’s work exemplifies the spirit of this award, demonstrating how agricultural education can serve as a powerful foundation for interdisciplinary learning. As part of the honor, he will receive a $500 classroom stipend and a scholarship to attend the National Agriculture in the Classroom Conference, taking place June 22–25 in Providence, Rhode Island. There, he will be recognized as Maryland’s state winner among peers from across the country.

The conference provides a valuable opportunity for professional growth, offering workshops, networking, and new ideas that Mr. Walter can bring back to further enrich the Bullis community. In addition to the conference, MAEF will formally present Mr. Walter with his award and celebrate his achievement through a classroom visit and photo opportunity, highlighting the impact of his work with students.

Farm School is more than a program—it is a living classroom where curiosity grows, empathy deepens, and learning takes root in meaningful, lasting ways. Mr. Walter's dedication—alongside the support and collaboration of his colleagues—continues to inspire students to care for the world around them and to see themselves as active participants in their communities.