The Rivendell Farms of the Carolinas (RFC) team has developed several practical ways to teach young students science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills through school gardens and hands-on experiential learning.   Jeffie Hardin, Director of Educational Programs, piloted an innovative school garden program as Whitewater Academy from 2011 to 2017 implementing the same methods developed by her and Chris to teach their children life skills and life lessons on the original Rivendell Farms (of Huntersville).    These innovative programs include the use of outdoor classrooms and gardens that align with existing Charlotte Mecklenburg School (CMS) core curriculum guidelines.