The General Assembly finds and declares as follows:
(1) Agriculture is this Commonwealth's leading economic enterprise. Unfortunately, the percentage of our population directly involved in agriculture has decreased dramatically over the last several decades. Knowledge about the sources of our food and agriculture in Pennsylvania is not widespread in our communities, particularly in less affluent areas. Educational programs for young children providing hands-on experience with agriculture increases an awareness of what constitutes a healthy diet. Thus, it is vital to inform the future citizens of this Commonwealth about good eating habits, while demonstrating the importance of the role of local farms in achieving this crucial goal.
(2) The purposes of this program are to educate prekindergartners through fifth graders and their families about the importance of choosing healthy, locally produced foods and increase awareness of Pennsylvania agriculture. Furthermore, the initiative should aid Pennsylvania farmers in gaining access to new markets within this Commonwealth. Consequently, the Commonwealth should institute a program including:
(i) Nutrition education involving student participation which is integrated into regular subjects in the curriculum of primary and secondary education institutions.
(ii) Focusing on locally grown foods provided from Pennsylvania farms.
(iii) Equipping teachers and other educators to incorporate nutrition and agriculture education into their instruction.
(iv) Providing for new direct marketing opportunities for Pennsylvania farmers.
(v) Providing for family and community involvement, including parent, caregiver and community group participation in education activities.
(vi) Visits to nearby farms for school children so they may understand and learn more about the sources of their food.