Hays Elementary Students Dive Into Agriculture Education at Agri-Plex

UPDATE: On October 21, 2025, Hays Elementary fourth graders engaged in hands-on learning during the fourth annual Lehigh County Agriculture Education Day at the Agri-Plex on the Allentown Fairgrounds. This dynamic event aims to educate students about the origins of their food and the critical role agriculture plays in their community.

The day featured interactive activities, including shaking milk to make butter and tasting freshly made applesauce. Students eagerly participated, with some even handling chicks under the guidance of Kelly Weisner, a 4-H educator from the Penn State Agricultural Extension.

Roger Bowman, owner of Winterside Farm, shared his expertise on sheep farming, while Richard Koenig assisted students in preparing applesauce. The collaboration of organizations such as the Allentown Fair, Lehigh County Agricultural Society, Lehigh County Granges, and the Lehigh County Farm Bureau made this educational initiative possible.

The event underscores the importance of agricultural literacy among youth, helping them connect with local farming practices. “We want students to understand where their food comes from and appreciate the agricultural sector,” said Bowman.

As the day unfolded, students like Karlee and Xiala expressed excitement over their hands-on experiences, reinforcing a sense of community and responsibility towards local agriculture. With the ongoing support from local agricultural organizations, events like this are vital in fostering a future generation that values and understands the significance of farming.

Looking ahead, educators and organizers plan to expand this initiative, ensuring that more students can benefit from this immersive learning experience in the coming years. The success of this year’s event highlights the community’s commitment to agricultural education and its lasting impact on young learners.