Remake Learning Days offer a variety of events across the state that highlight the many ways agricultural work intersects with our everyday lives.
While Pennsylvania is dotted with picturesque farms, many residents do not have any experience with the state’s agricultural businesses and programs. Through Remake Learning Days, the Department of Agriculture is hoping to change that.
“We are at a point where we’ve got such a small group of people who have any historical context of food and agriculture, at least from a family or a community standpoint,” says Russell Redding, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Agriculture. That’s why his office has chosen to partner with Remake Learning Days and Career Ready PA to shift the narrative.
Redding says that while the production side of agriculture is important work, there are so many more facts of the agriculture industry that offer exciting experiences for kids, as well as a chance to learn about future career paths. For example, new technology and innovation have changed the way farmers farm—and have created new careers within the industry. “Having opportunities for folks to think about the intersections of production, the environment, and quality of life in their communities is all part of what we see inside the agriculture field.” By participating in Remake Learning Days, he hopes to translate this info to families in the Commonwealth.
The Department of Agriculture first began hosting Remake Learning Day events. Sara Gligora, Special Assistant Workforce Development for the Department of Agriculture, says that they began by hosting just 12 events two years ago—and will be hosting more than 80 this year. “We have a real mix of events. For example, AgConnect is bringing some kids out to a farm, while the Friends of Agriculture Foundation is hosting a virtual event.” Some libraries host events about growing plants, while conservation districts host learning experiences to teach families about how to help our local ecosystems thrive.
As to the goal of these events? It’s about investing in the future of the state. “I hope these events are both a confirmation of the things we have in Pennsylvania that contribute greatly to both the quality of life in our communities,” says Redding. “It doesn’t always have a label of agriculture on it, but when people think about water quality, climate, jobs, food…” These are all tied to agriculture.
Redding sees this work as an investment in the future. “We are planting seeds. We are in the agriculture business.” He references author Stephen Covey’s management philosophy that many of us won’t be around to see the future results of our investments—but we should still invest. He wants parents to see the importance of agriculture today and as a potential opportunity for their children tomorrow. “We want them to explore, be inspired by, and recognise that this is really a place for meaningful employment.”
Take a look at just some of the more than 80 events the Department of Agriculture is helping to bring to Pennsylvania families in 2025:
Teeth Tell the Tale: Animal Skulls & Owl Pellet Investigation
May 15: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
At the Northern Pennsylvania Regional College, located in Kane, participants of all ages are invited to get messy with educators while they dig through owl pellets for animal teeth and bones. You’ll get to learn all about owls—from their diet to their habitats, and why they are vital to the agricultural industry in the state. Animal Science is an important field of study for students interested in the natural world, and this event is a great introduction to the field.
Wild Ways: Family Fun with Nature, Teamwork & Communication!
May 19, 4:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m.
This event will be held at the Community Center for Education for Elk and Cameron Counties. Families will have the chance to participate in a variety of hands-on learning stations that not only teach about the natural environment in this region of the state, but also help kids learn important communication skills like problem-solving and teamwork. This activity is best for kids 8 and up.
Kayak Nature Tour at Sinnemahoning State Park
May 24, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The agricultural industry in Pennsylvania is deeply committed to the goal of maintaining natural spaces, like state parks. Issues like field runoff, invasive species, and conservation efforts are all critical pieces of our local ecosystem. At this event, kayakers age 10 and up are invited to slice through the surface of this placid lake while they learn about wildlife, water quality, and more at this free event. Space is limited, so please pre-register.
If your family is looking to learn more about agriculture during Remake Learning Days, check out the full schedule of events here.