Throughout the school year, Pennsylvania public schools observe several state-designated days outlined in the Pennsylvania School Code. These observances give students meaningful opportunities to reflect on key historical events, civic values, and influential figures. Recognized days include:
- Free School Day – April 1–11
- Arbor Day – last Friday in April
- Patriot Day – September 11
- Constitution Day – September 17
- Frances Willard Day – September 28
- William Penn Day – October 24
- Bill of Rights Week – December 15
We are dedicated to providing students with meaningful learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to broader civic and historical themes. Additional details about each observance, along with examples of student activities, are listed below.
- Free School Day (April 1–11) – an official observance in Pennsylvania through a proclamation by the Governor, this observance honors the founding and growth of Pennsylvania’s free public school system and recognizes influential leaders who shaped its development. During this time, students may learn about figures such as Governor George Wolf, State Senator Samuel Breck, and Congressman Thaddeus Stevens.
- Arbor Day (last Friday in April) – as per school code, the day’s learning will devote at least two hours to the study of birds, trees and general conservation of resources
- Patriot Day (September 11)- Congress has designated September 11 each year as Patriot Day—a National Day of Service and Remembrance. On this day, students will reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, and explore the meaning of patriotism through informational texts, class discussions, and short videos.
- Constitution Day (September 17) – Students will explore the significance of the U.S. Constitution and its role in shaping our democracy. Students will engage with the content of these observances through a combination of our board-approved curriculum and supplemental activities. For Constitution Day, teachers may incorporate resources from trusted sources such as PebbleGo (a library database of informational texts), ReadWorks.com, NewsELA, the Library of Congress, and the National Constitution Center.
- Frances Willard Day (September 28) – This observance highlights the life and contributions of Frances Willard, a pioneering educator and reformer who advocated for public service and social change. Students will engage in age-appropriate materials. Elementary students may view a short video introducing Frances Willard, while secondary students may read a brief article summarizing her life and contributions, along with an additional short video. Some secondary classes may also explore resources from the Frances Willard House Museum website to deepen their understanding.
- William Penn Day (October 24) – This annual event honors William Penn’s life, his principles, and his role as the Founder, Proprietor, and Governor of the Commonwealth. Students will learn about Penn’s life through discussion, reading informational text and engaging in activities.
- Bill of Rights Week (December 15) – This week commemorates the ratification of the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights. While students learn about these rights throughout the school year, this week provides an opportunity to take part in special lessons and activities that deepen their understanding.
References:
Federal law 36 U.S. Code Section 106 and Public Law 108-447, Section 111(b), Division J – Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2005
PA School Code, Chapter 15(b) Special Instruction and Observances