PA Preferred Day

October 18th, 2019

HORSHAM, PA

On October 16th, Crooked Billet-Hallowell-Learning Community (CBHLC) along with all other schools in the Hatboro-Horsham School district took part in PA Preferred Day. PA Preferred is a source for locally grown products. This statewide branding program for locally produced products is supported by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  The program serves farmers and other agricultural-based businesses by supporting local farmers.

The Governor of Pennsylvania, Tom Wolf, has continued this program since its inception back in 2004. Governor Wolf working with the PA Department of Agriculture is expanding this program by partnering with school districts across the state. Currently, 44% of school districts across the state participate in the PA Preferred program.

A few special guests stopped by that day to get their hands dirty and serve lunch to the students. Pedro Rivera, PA Secretary of Education, stopped by to serve and eat lunch with students. Along with Rivera, Hatboro-Horsham School District Superintendent Curtis Griffin, school principals Steve Glaize and Kelli Sendel, served lunch right beside Mr. Rivera.

Jessica Rankin Oldsey, Hatboro-Horsham School District Food Director, stated, “We have done a little bit of research in the area, with what we can get here, and what we think the kids will like. Everything will be produced in the state.” October 16th was the first day this initiative started for the Hatboro-Horsham School District making them a partner in the Farm to School program. Pennsylvania ranks 22 out of 50 states in local food purchasing.

Students got the option that day of a chicken drumstick, french bread pizza, soft pretzel rod, fruits, and veggies.

The overall goal is to benefit the local economy as well as providing students tasty food grown within their state.  “Although it sometimes can be a little bit more costly, you can really get payback in the quality and taste of the food.” , Oldsey Stated.