Penn Manor hosts PA Education Secretary

Pennsylvania Education Secretary Pedro Rivera got a firsthand look at Penn Manor’s award-winning agricultural education program Thursday when he participated in the “Beyond the Blue Jacket” showcase at Penn Manor High School.

Rivera and other state officials toured the school’s ag facilities, including the greenhouse and shop, as students led demonstrations on veterinary science, floriculture, agricultural business management, engine repair and other topics included in the ag curriculum.

Rivera talked about the crucial role agriculture plays in Pennsylvania’s economy and how successful agricultural education programs help develop science, technology, engineering and math skills in students.

Also participating in the event were State Representative Brett Miller; Scott Sheely, workforce development assistant with the PA Department of Agriculture; and David Bittner, president of the PA Association of Agricultural Educators.

Following the tour, ag industry officials and students participated in a roundtable discussion on agriculture.

Penn Manor’s agricultural education program was named the best in the state in 2014 and enrolls more than 300 students in classes ranging from food and natural resources to biotechnology and agribusiness and leadership.

Thank you, Mr. Secretary, for taking the time to learn about Penn Manor’s program!