In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation that would require all public schools in Pennsylvania to begin their school year after Labor Day.
 
In many school districts across the Commonwealth, including my own, the academic year begins before Labor Day. This schedule creates a recurring conflict for students who participate in 4-H and agricultural programs, forcing them to choose between attending the first days of school and participating in their local or county fairs. No student should have to sacrifice one meaningful experience for another.
 
As many of you know, agriculture is Pennsylvania’s number one industry, contributing billions of dollars to our state’s economy and offering countless educational and career opportunities for young people. Encouraging student involvement in agriculture is vital to preserving and strengthening this cornerstone of our Commonwealth’s heritage.
 
By requiring the school year to begin after Labor Day, this legislation would allow students to fully engage in both their academic and agricultural commitments. It would also support family participation in community fairs, uphold long-standing agricultural traditions, and provide consistency for students, parents, and educators across the state.
 
I invite you to join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to support our students, strengthen Pennsylvania’s leading industry, and promote a more balanced start to the school year.