Students at Ridge Spring-Monetta swapped traditional textbooks for hands-on experience during the school’s second annual Agriculture Day on March 25. The event united students from both the Elementary and Middle/High School campuses, effectively bridging the gap between the classroom and the field.
The day featured more than 30 vendors, local farmers, and community organizations. Together, these partners showcased the diverse career pathways and modern opportunities available within the agricultural industry. Students rotated through interactive stations for direct engagement with industry professionals—from observing live beehives and handling livestock to planting flowers and exploring heavy machinery.
"This is our second annual Agriculture Day at the Ridge, and it’s all about exposure," said Haley Livingston, Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle School agriculture teacher. "We want students to see that agriculture is more than farming. There are so many different paths they can take."
The community-wide effort also drew in local alumni, who emphasized the industry's deep roots in the region. "Agriculture is a key part of our community," noted graduate Josh Boatwright. "It’s important for students to understand the different types of jobs available and how it connects to what they see every day."
A crowd-favorite highlight of the day was the "Kiss the Pig" event, which added a lighthearted, spirited moment to the focus on education and community connection.
"We are an agricultural community, and we want to celebrate the people who contribute to it," said Principal Matt Shepler. "This is about making sure our students know there are opportunities here and helping them make those connections early."
With strong participation and growing community support, Agriculture Day continues to evolve, offering students a meaningful experience that connects classroom learning to real-world possibilities.
